a^' 



•^ '5?f. 






<*. 






^^ v^^ 



r' 



x^ -n^. 



'5 ^ ^. .0:^' 



.'^ 



'^. 



'-^A V^^ 



v^^ "'c^. 






o>' 



^ 

^i^^ 



\- ^ ^ " "/ 



-'^V. .o\^^- 






\^ 



'/■, ..n' 



V- 



■0' ^^ '< '^ 






V V 









v^^ '^^^. 






^ -O" 






\X- 









x^^ 



,^ -^^ 



.\ 






*N^-v 



X ^ 



-P 



r 



.0 o 






4- 






•,-^^2/^^ 









"^^,^'^''' -i" 



,0^ 















\ 



-/■ 



\ > ^ ^ * ^ > 



-^ 



:-^- 






V. <^ 






\V 'V. 



» ■- \ 



■"c^., 



,^X'' 






v^^ 



"OO^ 



O 












.0 



'/ 




'i-. 



>* 






^' -^ "^ #^'^^ oV 



-0' 



"-^^ '• 



'c^ - * ■•^: <^ -i ^ >^v' 









^\^ 






^Z-^' 






v- .v^ 



r 
•^ 



A' 



.#\vr 






o 0' 



- -f^. 



-p,c^' :-^^ 






p^ V^' 






'^v ..^' 



ax^- -y_ 












^^ ''t. 









^-^'.^ .^ '^. 



o 












.^'' '-f. 



.■^ 



V . ' 



<G^^ 



■^ 



r .^... 






: 4 



o 









% 


%^' 








.^^ 


% 




-?r- 


-V- 








■ '<^ 


N 










#t 






^ 


.-^"^ 








^ 


K 


=■ > 






x^ 


^^. 


6 \ 







i^l'^'^c- 






^0- -O, 

0^ s^ V>'. ^^• 



^ ,.^ 



^. 



'^.p .^v^' 

^^<^. 



OUR REaiME:KT. 



A HISTORY 



or THB 



102d Illinois Infantry Volunteers 

WITH 

SKKTCKKS or THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN, 
TH3E: GEORGIA KAID, AND THE 

CAMPAIGN or THE CAKOLINAS. 



15 .V ?=§. F. FT^Ii:iI^Il'X"Y 



BREWSTER & HANSCOM. PRINTERS, 

134 DEARBORN STREET, CHICAGO. ILLINOIS. 

1865. 



Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1S65, by 

S. F. FLEHARTY, 

Tn the Clerk'R Offlce of the District Court of the United States, 
for the Northern District of Illinois. 






^ ^: ' ^^J-• P^v* ,_i;S Xi^~J ^^^ V'^JP' ^>.^ ^ 



0rriCEKS, ^rON-'?^OM. "SmCEKS ^. ^imiVATIS 



^^^— s^---— ''- ti^' ^^ 

OF THE 



102(1 "Illinois €^NrANTKY Volunteers, 

To you, one and all, as a testimonial of endu- 
ring regard for the Generous and the Brave^ this 
volume is respectfully dedicated. 



PREFACE. 

In presenting this book to the public, it is not claimed 
that " Our Regiment " was in any special way distin- 
guished above more than a hundred organizations of the 
kind, sent into the field by our noble State. 

The field of active service was one of common suffer- 
ing and common danger, and all the regiments that par- 
ticipated in the work of suppressing the rebellion, will 
be honored according to their deeds, by the people 
whom they served. 

In preparing the manuscript I have had frequent occa- 
fiions to refer to the diaries of Capt. J. Y. Merritt, Lt. 
Byron Jordan and Sergt. T. M. Bell. Their kindness in 
permitting me to use them is gratefully acknowledged. 

Numerous extracts have been made from productions 
of my own pen; published in the form of newspaper cor- 
respondence, at intervals while in the service. 

For many expressions of good will, and for material 

aid in the enterprise of publishing the " History," the 

officers and soldiers of the re2:iment have mv sincere 

thanks. 

S. F. F. 

Galesburg, III., Aug. 11th, 1865. 



OUR REGIMENT. 

A HISTORY OF THE 102d ILLINOIS INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS. 



CHAPTER I. 

The ''loar feeling'" in 1862. (?«// /or 600,000 Volun- 
teers. The Response. Organization of the \^\Ld III. 
Regiment. The Camp at Knoxmlle — Peoria — a7id the 
ride to Jeffersonville. 

During the summer of 1862 — the second year of the 
war for the suppression of the rebellion — in response to 
the call for " six hundred thousand more," the question 
oame home to the liearts of loyal men everywhere, " i.s 
it my duty to go ?" and the conviction became universal 
that the Government would need the services of all. To 
liesitate then, was to connive at treason. The loyal 
people answered, " Ave will go," and catching the popu- 
lar refrain : 

" We are coming, Father Abraham, six hundred thousand more, 
From Mississippi's winding stream, and from New England's shore. 

****** 
If you look across the hilltops that meet the Northern sky, 
Long moving lines of rising dust your vision may descry," 

- — they marched to fields of glory and of death. 

In response to this call the 102d 111. Reg't was organ- 
ized. Political issues had been dropped. The language 
of the lamented Douglas was apparently verified — there 
were " only patriots " on the one hand, " and traitors " 
on the other. The " War Democracy " was developed, 
and our first commander, Col. Wm. McMurtry, was uni- 
versally considered a proper man to organize and direct 
this element. He had been known as the " Old War- 
Horse " of the Democracy ; and when he announced his 
intention to raise a regiment, his fellow-citizens — Demo- 
crats and Republicans — quickly rallied to his standard. 



8 niSTORY OF THE 1 02l> IT, I,. rNFAXTRY VOLS. 

The companies of the 102d were raised in the counties 
of Knox, Mercer, Warren and Rock Ishmd, during the 
month of August, 1862, and were brought together at 
Knoxville, 111., during the last week of tlie same month. 
Companies A, F, D, I, H and B were made up almost 
exclusively in Knox County. Companies C, E, K, and 
G were organized in Mercer. In the companies of Knox 
County, there Avere a few men from Warren, and in 
those from Mercer, there were a number from Rock 
Island County. 

The Regiment was composed of men who had associ- 
ated together as friends and neighbors, and had labored 
together in the workshop and the field, during the quiet 
years of peace. Almost every branch of industry, and 
most of the leading p.iofessions were represented, the 
farmer, the mechanic, the tradesman, the teacher, the 
lawyer and the minister fell into ranks, shoulder to 
shoulder. 

The transition from the pursuits of peace — from the 
quiet home life to the noisy camp of reci*tiits was a 
severe trial to many of the amateur warriors. From 
beds of down, to beds of straw ! From mahogany 
tables to tables of rude boards ! From the light and 
excellent bread that " mother made," to the army substi' 
tute — " hard-tack. O, yes ! those were days of trial to 
the raw recruit. 

Days of labor, too — for the embryo officers prosecuted 
the work of drilling and instructing the men with the 
energy of those who believed the perpetuity of the Gov- 
ernment depended upon their individual exertions. And 
with what supreme awe we looked upon a veteran officer 
— and there were several of this class in camp ; per- 
chance the heroes of one battle, and a three month's 
term of service. Their word was law. Who then 
would have dared to question their decision of any moot- 
ed point in tactics ? 

And those were days of turmoil. All were patriotic, 
of course ; but the patriotism of many was of such a 
character that it led them to believe they could best 
serve their country in some exalted position. Hence 
there was much wire-pulling, and many who had expect- 



1>AYS OF IITUMOIL xVNI) WIRE-PULLIX«i. 9 

«^d to wear what the boys called "' pumpkin rinds," were 
compelled to march by the side of those who were lured 
into the service by pure patriotism, and thirteen dollars 
a month, with allowances. 

The wonder w^ith us was, that amid so much conten- 
tion, so many good and faithful men received commis- 
sions. There were some who afterwards proved failures. 
I need not mention their names here. They are fixed 
in the minds of the men of the resriment, indelibly. 

I will not, by any personal allusions, resurrect the bit- 
ter feelings of jealousy that existed for a time at Knox- 
ville; doubtless the experience of the 102d was the 
experience of all other regiments, in this respect. 
Suffice it to say that the extreme desire for olficial pre- 
ferment had a very demoralizing tendency. Men of 
little or no capacity aspired to the highest positions in 
the regiment. An incident illustrating this recklessly 
ambitious spirit was subsequently related to me as hav- 
ing occurred when the regiment was at Knoxville. One 
of the newly promoted captains was but half satisfied 
with his responsible position, and learning that the Adju- 
tancy was vacant, a bright idea struck him. Forthwith 

he went to wire-pulling, and approaching Lieut. • 

explained to him that he desired to he promoted to Adju- 
tant of the regiment, and asked his support ! 

The regiment was mustered into the service on the 
2d of Sept., 1862 — 921 strong. So at least says the 
morning report of that date. 

The field and staff offiicers were : Colonel, Wm. 
McMurtry; Lieut. Col., F. C. Smith, Major; J. M. Man- 
non; Asst. Surg., Wm. Hamilton; Adjt., J. W. Pitman; 
Chaplain, M. K. Tullis ; Quartermaster, F. H. Rugar. 

The companies were commanded as follows : Co. A, 
Capt. R. R. Harding; Co. B, Capt. E.C.Atchison; 
Co. C, Capt. F, Shedd ; Co. D, Capt. H. H. ^Yilsie ; 
Co. E, Capt. Thomas Likelv. Co. F, Capt. C. H. 
Jackson ; Co. G, Capt. J. P. Wykoff"; Co. H, Capt. 
L. D. Sliinn; Co. T, Capt. Geo. H. King; Co. K, Capt. 
S. H. RodLTors, 



10 niSTORi' OF THJbl 10l>D ILL. INTFAXTKY VOLS. 

The soldiers were soon all clothed in the army blue, 
and were last becoming initiated into the mysteries of 
their profession. With sm-prising dignity they paced 
to and fro when on duty with the old mud-filled, broken- 
locked muskets in their hands I All were anxious to 
leave Knoxville ; willing to go anywhere ; willing to do 
anything rather than remain imprisoned there. At 
length the order came, and on the 22d of Sept., a bright 
and beautiful day, the right wing was marched on board 
a train of cars, and there receiving the loving adieus of 
dear friends, 

" With hearts too full for utterance — with but a silent tear," 

they glided away from their liomes and hearthstones — 
away to a new encampment at Peoria. The left wing- 
was transferred to the new rendezvous, on the following 
day. 

The camp was about two hundred yards from Peoria 
Lake, and was beatifully located. The scene from the 
bluff in the rear of the encampment was very tine. In 
the foreground were the regimental barracks — long, 
sharp-roofed board quarters, and near these, groups of 
cloth tents ; beyond was the placid lake and away in the 
back ground, a dense bodj' of timber crowning the op- 
posite bluffs. 

Our stay at Peoria was brief, but while there the regi- 
ment was drilled every day, and we participated once in 
a brigade drill under Col. Bryner. 

Few would have regreted a longer stay at Peoria. 
We had but learned the first rudiments of drill and disci- 
pline, when the order came to be ready by the 29th of 
the month to go to Louisville, Ky. 

(jrovernment needed men in the field. Bragg was 
overrunning Kentucky and pressing Buell back to Louis- 
ville. Our Colonel had reported the regiment ready for 
the field, and declared his anxiety to lead us at once '' to 
glory or to death !" 

Consequently on the 30th of October we marelied to 
the depot of* the Peoria, Burlington and Logansport li. 



THE KID)': TO JEFFERSOXVILLE. 11 

R., and there in tlic midst of a drizzling rain, which 
soon increased to a steady " ])onr," awnited tlie depart- 
ure of the train. A " speck of war," however, dehiyed 
our departure. There wei-e not passenger coaches 
enough for all. As tlie only alternative, freio-ht cars 
were substituted. " What !" said the unlucky men who 
tailed to obtain cushioned-seats— " make us ride in cattle 
cars !— we can't see it !''— and why should they? They 
did not enlist to be treated like animals; huddled 
together like so many cattle on tlieir way to the slau^rh- 
ter-pen ! The comparison suggested was not pleasant ' 
Here let me anticipate somewhat by stating that loiio- 
months after that time, away down beneath the burnin? 
^T;i- ^^^^''^^^^ ^ ^^^^^'^^ the men of the I02d make the 
soldiers' comment upon this little episode. Hun^rry 
weary, footsore, one would say, " Partner would youlike 
to ride m a cattle car?" '^ Yes, indeed I would, still I 
am iihlc to hoof it r and in perfect good hmnor, with 
spirits that nothing could dampen, they would trudo-c 
M'earily on. " ' ^ 

The difficulty at Peoria was settled by a promise from 
the conductor that the unlucky ones should all be trans- 
ferred to expi-ess cars at some point not far distant on 
the road. 

^ And then we had a glorious ride over the b^oad prai- 
ries east of the Illinois river. The eye grew weary scan- 
ning the wide expanse. The broad, billowy, green 
prairie sea. As mile after mile our train sped alonS the 
sun sinking low in the west, lighted up the horizoir^with 
a golden histre— not unlike what we had often dreamed 
ol the niagnificent sunsets at sea. AVhat a moment for 
reflection I How like heaven, or the gateway to heaven, 
seemed the glowing, gorgeous West, and beneath that 
golden purple and orange hued sky were our homes, 
ihen the soldier breathed along farewell to his "prai- 
rie-iand and turned to welconie the dark and stormy 
future. As the shadows of night closed around, occa- 
sional lights Irom quiet cottage homes caused his mind 
to revert to his own loved circle, now far away. 



12 HISTOKY OF IHE 1 OllD ILL. I^FAMRY VOL5. 

I.ate ill the evening we crossed the State line, and early 
next morning reached Logansport, Ind. Thence 
through immense forests, anon flitting by little log huts 
and small " clearings," — on through a number of beautiful 
villages inchiding Lafayette and Delphi, the train dashed 
'd^vi\y to Indianapolis. We Avitnessed there some indi- 
cations of war — rifled cannon, piles of ammunition, and 
a large number of paroled Federal prisoners, fresh from 
the lost battle-field of Mum ford sville. 

On the morning of October 2d, the regiment reached 
Jelfersonville, opposite Louisville, Ky. Shortly after 
our arrival the camp was filled with rumors of fighting 
across the river. That night we ]*eceived our guns — 
French muskets — and " slept %ipon our arms.'''' 



ON THE MARCH. 13 

CHAPTER II. 

Crossing the Ohio. Louismlle. The first march. Great 
privations. Arrival at Frankfort. Dissatisfaction 
in the Meginieiit. Lieut. Col. Smith assumes com- 
mand. Chase after John Morgan. 

At one o'clock, on the morning of October 3d, the 
*' long roll " sounded, three day's rations were issued, 
and at daybreak we marched across the Ohio river, on a 
pontoon bridge, made of flat-boats; passed through Louis- 
ville, and halted for a time in the suburbs of the city, 
near Cave Hill Cemetery. 

At Louis^dlle the regiment was brigaded with the VQth 
Ohio and 105th Illinois regiments, under the command 
of Brig. Gen. W. T. Ward. Subsequently the 70th 
Ind. and 129th 111. regiments were attached to the 
brigade, and thenceforward until the close of the war 
the brigade retained the same organization. Never 
were regiments more harmoniously associated. 

Louisville was then a gloomy city. For many days 
the citizens had been expecting the arrival of the rebel 
army. Business was at a stand-still. Soldiers were 
pouring in from the jSTorth, monopolizing all the routes of 
travel. All was bustle and busy preparation, but the 
note of preparation was for war. 

The regiment remained at Louisville but a few hours. 
Late in the afternoon of the 3d, the memorable " Frank- 
fort march " commenced. 

The "first march," is a time of trial with all new 
troops. Our first Avas one of peculiar trials. The day 
was excessively warm ; so warm, indeed, that as we 
waited orders, every available shade was sought by the 
panting soldiers. When the order came to fall in, it 
would have amused a veteran to witness the men take 
their places with their huge burdens upon their backs. 
Almost every man carried a well-tilled knapsack. Each 
one had been supplied with forty rounds of ammunition 
and three days rations. Add to this a heavy musket, 
and you have a load that might well strike terror to the 
heart of a raw recruit, 2 



14 HISTOKY OF THE 102D ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

For a time the men kept their places very well, but at 
length they commenced dropping out, one by one, then 
in squads, until finally the roadside was lined with ex- 
hausted soldiers. Water was extremely scarce. Relent- 
lessly our commanders kept on their way. Why, no one 
could tell ; no rnie could detect the wisdom of a move- 
ment Avhich if continued would precipitate a disordered 
column of worn out and exhausted men upon the enemy. 
Far into the night the march was continued. At mid- 
night probably three-fourths of the regiment had turned 
in by the Avayside, to rest at will until morning. A' few 
continued on, scarcely enough to keep up the organiza- 
tion of the regiment. Scattered like flocks of quails, 
they would call to each other in the darkness, thus ; 
"Here's the 102d." "Co. D," "Co. B." "Right this 
way to Co. K.'' The head of the column camped at 
length fifteen miles from Louisville. By ten o'clock 
the next day, a majority of the men came up, and at 
eleven o'clock the march was resumed. The regiment 
reached the vicinity of Shelbyville at a late hour that 
night, Oct. 4th. The camp at Shelbyville was in every 
respect uncomfortable ; water was scarce ; rations were 
not to be had ; we had no tents ; were exposed to the 
rays of a very warm October sun, and obliged to make 
our beds on the plowed surface of a yellow, Kentucky 
hill. 

Monday evening, October 6th, the forward trot was 
resumed. We were ordered to proceed two miles east 
of Shelbyville and encamp for the night, — and went 
almost " on the double quick." There were many pretty 
and patriotic young ladies in the beautiful village of 
Shelbyville, but we could not halt to talk with the fair 
creatures. There is in our minds at this time a dim rec- 
ollection of a panoramic scene like this : A lovely col- 
lection of houses, crowded awnings ; waving flags ; 
wavy tresses, blue eyes, pearly teeth and rosy cheeks, 
and that was ail they would let us see of Shelbyville. 

Wednesday morning, the 8th, we continued on to- 
wards Frankfort. Soon there were rumors of fighting in 
advance, and presently an order came to give way to 
the right and left, and permit a body of cavalry to pass. 



ARRIVAL AT FRANKFORT, KY. 15 

There was a dense cloud of dust in the rear which 
increased and enveloped everything as the horsemen 
passed by. Late in the evening we entered a narrow 
defile where the dust in the road was deep, and light as 
flour. At that moment a battery was ordered up from 
the rear, and it came thundering by — the horses in a 
sweeping trot, raising a cloud of dust that filled the 
atmosphere from hill-top to hill-top and veiled the face 
of the rising moon. The terrible machinery of war 
seemed about to be let loose. At length the column 
filed off into a plowed field ; Ave slept a couple of hours, 
were aroused by the unwelcome, notes of the bugle 
sounding " forward," and were quickly on the road 
again. Continuing down the narrow pass we debouched 
at length near the city of Frankfort. There had been 
a short skirmish at the bridge across the Kentucky river, 
but when we came up it was all over. The rebels had 
attempted to burn the bridge, but our cavalry was too 
quick for them. 

As we marched over the bridge and into the city, the 
moon shone brightly and all things were hushed in deep 
repose. There was little, save the marching columns, to 
indicate the existence of war. The faithful cavalry boys 
were resting^ at the roadside near the bridsie. Some 
sleeping on their horses — some on the ground. We 
filed through the quiet streets, then up, up, up a hill that 
seemed as if it v/ould reach the sky — found a compara- 
tively level surface, formed in line of battle, stacked 
arms and slept, the sweet sleep that is seldom enjoyed 
save by weary soldiers. 

At daylight the right wing of the regiment was or- 
dered to a new position in support of a masked battery. 
It will be recollected that here, on the slope of a hill 
that made an angle of at least forty-five degrees with the 
plane of the horizon, Acting Adjutant Ogden endeavored 
to have battallion drill. Among other lessons he at- 
tempted " firing by file " and "-by platoon." The men 
were quite awkward, as they had never been taught 
these things. Ogden became impatient, declared we 
ought to have understood those exercises, thought we 
" never would learn anything," and marched u.s in a 



16 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

short time to camp. We changed camp twice while at 
Frankfort. During the last week of our stay there the 
regiment was encamped two miles east of the city. The 
men were there supplied with bell tents — which were 
but a slight improvement upon the cedar houses they 
had learned to construct. In the bell tents we were 
crowded so closely, that comfortable sleeping was out 
of the question — to escape being " overlaid " Avas as 
much as could be hoped for under such circumstances. 

The practice of " standing at arms " was observed, for 
a time, at Frankfort. This ceremony consisted in form- 
ing a line of battle an hour or two before daylight, and 
remaining in line until sunrise, — so at least it was or- 
dered, but the letter of the law was not obeyed and the 
troops were usually dismissed at dawn of day. The 
design was a good one — namely, to guard against sur- 
prise. But the men were aroused at an earlier hour 
than was necessary ; — the mornings Avere very cold, and 
coming out from their warm beds they stood shivering 
as with an ague. Many became sick in consequence of 
the exposure, and the obnoxious practice was aban- 
doned. 

The first scouting party from the regiment went out 
at Frankfort. It was commanded by Acting Adjutant 
Ogdon, who manifested a commendable thirst for glory. 
Some miles away from camp the party captured a fine 
large rebel flag, at the house of an old citizen. This 
then was a grand achievement. The rebel flag was 
borne proudly into camp — the old citizen accompanying 
the squad as a prisoner. An officer who had remained 
in camp proposed " three cheers for our brave boys," 
and the commanding officer of the scouts in due time made 
a formal and dignihed report of the capture. Glory was 
comparatively cheap then. 

During our sojourn at Frankfort the celebrated Law- 
renceburg march took place. While at dress parade on 
Saturday evening, Oct. 18th, news reached us that John 
Morgan had captured Lexington. Shortly afterwards a 
body of Federal cavalry, eight hundred strong, went 
dashing by from the direction of Frankfort ; next came 



THE LAWRENCEBTJRG MARCH. 17 

a battery, and finally a large force of infantry, in wag- 
ons — some drawn by four mules, some by six — all 
making the best possible time, and making an appear- 
ance that was well calculated to awaken a sense of the 
ludicrous. 

We rolled ourselves into our blankets that night with 
the full expectation of hearing the '' long roll " ere morn- 
ing — and were not disappointed. About midnight it 
was sounded and in an incredibly short time we were 
up, dressed, equipped and on the march. Contrary to 
our expectations we moved in the direction of Frank- 
fort. The movement was then inexj^licable to us. We 
learned afterwards that Morgan liaving heard of the 
cavalry and mule-wagon-mounted-infantry movement 
against him, evacuated that city and set out for Law- 
renceburg. Our business Avas to intercept him at that 
point — distant sixteen miles from camp. For some rea- 
son unknown to us there was an hour's halt in the road 
a short distance south of Frankfort. Probably it was 
feared that Morgan, would diverge from his course, dash 
in and capture Frankfort. However, the march was 
resumed, and as if to make up for lost time the men 
were kept almost on a run. Gen. Ward led the brigade, 
and when near Lawrenceburg, in the grey light of dawn- 
ing day, he halted the column and with the usual Ken- 
tucky accent gave the command ''''prepahto load — load !" 
The leaden balls were quickly sent home. The men 
were just then in a fighting mood. They would have 
faced Beelzebub and all his angels and would never have 
thought of running. 

We continued on to Lawrenceburg, but the bird had 
flown. IMorgan had passed through the town an hour 
and a half previous to our arrival. The pursuit was 
continued by other troops. We rested a few hours — 
some of the men sleeping — with stones for pillows — 
others munching hard crackers and raw pork. 

The return march was made in slower time. Many of 
the men were completely Avorn down and they marched 
into camp at a snail's pace — literally dragging them- 
selves along. We reached camp at 7 o'clock in the eve- 
ning, having marched thirty-two miles. 



18 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

If our brigade had been mounted John Morgan would 
doubtless have been headed-off, but the anti-cavalry 
theory was popular at that time, and the brilliant com- 
bination against the guerrilla chief was an entire failure. 

While at Frankfort the officers of the regiment en- 
deavored to convince Colonel McMurtry that it would be 
well for him to transfer the command to some other per- 
son. The Colonel refused to be convinced. There was 
much dissatisfaction, and not a little unwarranted mur- 
muring. The old Colonel meant well. Beneath a rough 
exterior he had a kind heart, and at this distant day his 
men would iiot tarnish the honors of age by any harsh 
criticisms. Col. McMurtry was in poor health, and 
finally became seriously sick, went to the hospital for 
treatment and eA'"entually to his home. 

The command then devolved upon Lieut. Col. F. C. 
Smith, an untried man. Col. Smith very modestly as- 
sumed command ; acknowledging his inexperience, but 
declaring his willingness to learn, and to do the best he 
could by the men. For a long time there was much 
dissatisfaction in the regiment. Many were clamorous 
for a commander who " had seen service." 

On the evening of the 2oth of October, an order came 
to be in readiness to march the following day — destina- 
tion. Bowling Green. That night snow fell to the depth 
of three inches. It was a cheerless mornino^ that dawned 
Oct. 26th, 1862. But there could be no postponement of 
the march. 

The army under Rosecrans was on the move, and the 
work before it was to defeat and hurl back the rebel 
hordes that had marched so triumphantly from the Ten- 
nessee to the Ohio. At the appointed hour the regiment 
struck tents and marched cheerfully away to face new 
trials and unknown dangers. 

The brigade marched twenty miles that day and 
camped at Salt River. The men spread their blankets 
on the snow and slept very uncomfortably.* 

*The accompanying abridged account of the march to Bowling Green is princi- 
pally taken from brief notes furnished by Lieut. D. W. Sheahan and Corp. J. E. 
Gilmore. Being sick at the commencement of the march, I was absent from the 
regiment from Oct. 26th until Nov. 4th. S. P. F. 



FROM FRANKFORT TO BOWLIXG GREEN. 19 

Passed throui:!:h the romantic little town of " Dog- 
walk " on the 27th. The town is a miserable old dilapida- 
ted place, located in a deep hollow. Some of the men 
foraged quite extensively there, and among other articles 
secured a quantity of whisky. The column marched ten 
miles during the day over a very bad road, and went 
into camp at a place which the soldiers called Hell's 
Point. The camp was boisterous that evening ; — the 
whisky obtained at " Dog-walk " had been freely 
imbibed, and the usual consequences followed. 

The brigade moved at 8 o'clock a. m., on the 28th, 
and marched 17 miles, passing through Johnson ville and 
Chaplin Hill. Camped at Sugar Grove. 

Passed through Bloomfield and Bardstown on the 
29th. Marched thirteen miles, and camped one mile 
from the last named place. 

On the 30th of October, the column marched thirteen 
miles, reached oSTew Haven, and w^ent into camp near 
the town. At that place the first regimental muster and 
pay rolls were made out. 

Marched eighteen miles on the 31st, and near Hodg- 
kinsville passed by the birth-place of Abraham Lincoln. 
The loo* buildino; in which he first breathed the breath 
of life, had been torn down, re-erected and used as a 
stable. Camped that n^ght near ISTolen's Run, in Larue 
County. 

On the first day of November the brigade marched 
twelve miles and reached Bacon Creek Station. There 
the sick and worn out soldiers were placed on board the 
cars and sent forward. 

During the 2d, the column passed through Mumfords- 
ville and crossed Green liiver. Marched fifteen miles 
and camped at Horse Cave. Many of the men visitt;d 
the cave. 

Marched eighteen miles on the 3d, passed w^ithin a few 
miles of the celebrated Mammoth Cave, and went into 
camp fifteen miles from Bowling Green, in a })lowed 
field. 

Passed throusrh Bowline; Green on the 4th, and 
camped at Lost River, three miles southwest of the city. 



20 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFAXTRY VOLS. 

The march from Frankfort to the camp at Lost River, 
near Bowling Green, was accomplished in ten days — 
distance one hundred and fifty-four miles ; — average 
march per day, a fraction over fifteen miles. During the 
latter part of the march the roads were dry and dusty. 
Great clouds of dust constantly filled the atmosphere. 
The soldiers were literally coated with dust, and com- 
rades marching together could scarcely recognize each 
other. 

Many of the men were foot-sore wdien they reached 
Lost River, but in other respects they endured the march 
like veterans. 

The brigade remained at Lost River from the 4th 
until the 11th of November. 

Lost River is a small stream which, apparently rising 
out of the ground, flows a few hundred yards and disappears 
in the mouth of a yawning cavern — hence its name. 
The stream makes no approach in size to the dignity ol 
a river. 

Being determined, notwithstanding the retiring dis- 
position of the little river, to seek a further acquaintance, 
a number of us explored the underground channel. 

Lighting our candles we wandered over detached rocks, 
far into the interior, wdiere the solemn stillness of the 
place was broken only by the murmuring stream, and 
the sound of our own voices. The ceiling of the cavern- 
ous passage reaches in some places almost to the bed of 
the stream, and in other parts rises in a dome-like form, 
so high that the outlines were rendered but dimly visible 
by the aid of our imperfect lights. Our voices resounded 
with startling effect through the rugged aisles, and the 
report of a pistol was as deafening as the ordinary sound 
of a cannon. 

* While underground we v/ere almost directly beneath 
the camp of our brigade. We occupied over an hour 
picking our way over the rocks and through the sinu- 
ous aisles, and at the end of that time were contented to 
live in the " upper world " again. 

Col. Bryner of the 49th 111. Regiment, visited the 
102d at Bowling Green, and an eftbrt was made to elect 
him Colonel of the regiment. But the election resulted 
in the choice of Lieut. Col. F. C. Smith for that place. 



GRAND REVIEW BY GEX. ROSECRANS. 21 

As Col. McMurtry had not yet resigned, Col. Smith 
could not then be commissioned, but by the action of the 
officers at that time the mooted question was eifectually 
settled. 

On the 9th of Nov. our division was reviewed by Maj. 
Gen. Rosecrans. Riding to the right of the division and 
then guiding his horse slowly along the front towards the 
left he received the salute of each regiment as he passed, 
and to each addressed a few well-timed words. Ap- 
proaching the 105th he said : " Men of the 105th when 
you go into battle lire deliberately and aim low. Remem- 
ber that if each one of you hits a man you will kill and 
cripple a great many. It is a short lesson and I hope 
you will remember it." Then riding on he said; " These 
are tall men — very tall; they must have been raised 
where they grow such tall corn." In passing, he paid the 
102d a handsome compliment. He carefully observed 
the condition of the soldier's equipments, noticing the 
least deficiencies. " Where is your canteen," said he, 
addressing a soldier who had none. " Lost." " Well, 
tell your Captain to get you another." Gen. Rosecrans 
makes a fine appearance on horseback. He has a genial 
countenance which at once enlists the good will of the 
soldiers. 

The camp at Lost River was so pleasant, that Ave 
received marching orders with strong feelings of regret. 
The weather was much of the time very fine, and during 
leisure hours we enjoyed rare sport rambling through 
the woods, gathering hickory nuts, walnuts and persim- 
mons. 



22 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. IXFANTRY VOLS. 



CHAPTER III. 

The inarch to ScottsvUle. Brief Hest. Yankee tricks. 
An unsophisticated maiden. The march to Gallatin. 
Permanent encampment. Morgan Alarms. A gloomy 
period. Regimental changes. Hetniniscence of Gal- 
latin. 

At an early hour, Nov. lltb, the camp at Bowling 
Green was abandoned, and we marched by an unfre- 
quented road, over high hills and through deep valleys 
in the direction of Scottsville. The hills were in many 
places so steep that the wagon train moved Avith great 
difficulty. The w^ild appearance of the region and the 
anti-progressive character of the people attracted the 
attention of all observers. The majority of the dwell- 
ings were rude log cabins — with but one redeeming fea- 
ture — the old-fashioned fire-place, which ahvays suggests 
a picture of primeval happiness. Looking at those well 
worn hearthstones the mind of the native or pioneer 
w^estern man w^ent back to the time, long ago, w^hen as 
one of a happy family circle he was accustomed to sit 
before a brightly blazing fire made of hickory logs. Oh ! 
there is not in the w^ide world another such place to 
dream day dreams and build air castles ! 

During the first day's march we passed a school house 
— the best that had been seen in the journey through the 
State. The children came out enmasse, to look at the 
soldiers. A Yankee soldier was something of a novelty 
in that re<>:ion. Butteiiiut colered clothino; was almost 
universally w^orn. Many of the wdiites used the genuine 
negro Ijrogue in conversation. 

That there should be so much difference in dress, 
habits and manners betw^een Ken tucki an s and lUinoisuns, 
seemed very strange. No Western man -could be 
induced to live in that portion of Kentucky. The soil 
liad the appearance of having been blasted by a thou- 
sand vears of furnace heat. 



KEXTUCKY SCEIP A SOUND CUEREXCY. 23 

What enterprising Yankee even, conld resist the ener- 
vating influence of a Kentucky Indian Summer day — 
with its hazy atmosphere, and the great red sun glowing 
upon a forest of red and yellow leaves, and a deep red 
soil! 

Tobacco was the staple article — cultivated by all, and 
used by men, women and children. The soldiers gave 
it the name of " Kentucky scrip," and it seemed to be 
the only kind of currency on which there vras no dis- 
count. An incident, by the way, will illustrate how 
popular the weed is in that part of Kentucky : 

Sergt. Gregg, of Co. C, feelmg weary and vei-y hun- 
gry, halted at a house by the roadside and asked for 
something to eat. " O, yes, you shall have somethmg to 
eat as soon as I can bake some biscuits," said the lady 
of the house. George took his seat, but while patiently 
waiting the supper which the woman was busily prepar- 
ing, his nerves received a violent shock as she turned to 
him with the question : " Mister will you please to let 
me have a chaw of tubbacker?" He gave her a plug 
and was astonished to see her bite off a huge piece and 
commence munching it with all the eagerness of a vete- 
ran chewer. Cooking supper, and at the same tune spit- 
ting tobacco juice here and there, did not comport with 
George's idea of decency, yet he was hungry, and that 
was no time to entertain squeamish misgivings about 
what was placed on the table before him. He sat down 
and ate with the resolution of a soldier. 

We camped at Sulphur Springs the night of the 11th. 
Reached Scottsville on the evening of the 12th of Kov. 
and went into camp on the sunny side of a long hill, near 
a stream of excellent water. 

Scottsville is the county seat of Allen County, and at 
the time of our visit probably contained a hundred and 
fifty inhabitants. The people appeared to be generally 
loyal. They carried on a lively trade with the soldiers, 
which was not always very profitable to them. They 
brought in corn-meal, dried apples, dried peaches, bread, 
pies, etc. Mone}^ was scarce among the soldiers, and 
some of the more unscrupulous resorted to strategy to 
obtain what they wanted, and in som-c cases imposed most 



24 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

shamefully upon tlie credulity of the people. One of the 
men repeatedly deceived them ui this way : — he shelled 
a small quantity of corn, placed it in a sack, told them it 
was coifee, and traded it for pies and other luxuries. 
Another removed the pole straps from a citizen's horse, 
carried the straps around to the driver and exchanged 
them for something to eat. One-cent labels from bottles 
of " Painkiller " were passed readily for one-dollar bills. 

Two other incidents that occurred at Scottsville will 
fully illustrate the unsophisticated nature of the people : 

An old gentleman who was dealing in apples and pies 
thought he was too sharp for the Yankees, and refused 
to receive postage stamps for his edibles. Presently one 
of the boys brought out some stamps which he had 
taken from some old letters. OiFering them to the citi- 
zen they were eagerly accepted with the remark — " Oh, 
yes ! I'll take those ; I know they are good for they've 
been used P'' 

The other case was one in which our friend Lieut. A. 
H. Trego figured. The Lieutenant v/as purchasing some 
pies of an interesting young lady and, no doubt, wishing 
to prolong the interview, commenced a conversation 
with her, and in the course of the colloquy asked the 
distance to the Tennessee line. Noticing that she looked 
at him enquiringly, without immediately replying, the 
question was repeated : "' What !" said she, " Tennes- 
see Line !" no sucii folks live around here, — I've lived 
here all my time and there's nobody of that name 'bout 
here I^m shore P'' The conversation here ended. Lieut. 
T. asked no more questions about the Tennessee line, 
but struck a bee-line for his quarters. 

The routine of duty at Scottsville was quite heavy. 
At five o'clock every morning the camp was aroused by 
the discharge of a cannon. Then followed the roll of 
the drums, and then roll call. At eight o'clock guard- 
mounting. In those days vve had camp guards as well 
as pickets. Company and squad drill from ten to half- 
past eleven o'clock. Battallion drill from half-past one, 
until four o'clock p. m. Dress parade at four. 

On the morning of the 2oth of Nov. we resumed the 
march southward in the direction of Gallatin. After 
marching a few hours, and while passing through a deep 



CAMPING UNDER DIFFICULTIES. 25 

valley, loud cheers were borne to our ears from the head 
of the column. We had found the " Tennessee Ime." 

At a late hour that evening, when expecting every mo- 
ment to be halted for the night, the column commenced 
descending a narrow valley — down, down, dowm ; deeper 
and darker, and only room enough at the bottom for the 
road! Where would an encampment be found? The 
question was soon answered. A halt was ordered. The 
men stacked arms. The wagon train halted in the road. 
A fence on the hillside near by, afforded fuel. Owing to 
the lateness of the hour and the inequalities of the 
ground we were unable to pitch our tents, and slept in 
Indian style by the brightly blazing camp fires. 

We continued on at an early hour next morning and 
passed through what appeared to be the nucleus of a 
town. The only thing we saw there worth commenting 
upon, was a satirical representation of Bragg and Buell, 
rudely charcoaled on the door of a blacksmith shop, — 
one smoking a pipe, the other a cigar, and apparently 
chatting in a jovial, hail-fellow-well-met style. It was 
thought that the soldiers of both armies could appreciate 
the caricatures. The town or neighborhood was called 
Rock House Valley. 

We reached Gallatin in the evening — Nov. 26th — little 
thinkinoj then that we would remain there six lonir 
months. But such was to be our destiny. 

Gallatin is a pleasant village of about two thousand 
inhabitants ; has some neat residences, and the people 
]iad exhibited taste and refinement in decorating their 
grounds and ornamenting their buildings. The pretty 
groves of evergreens in which neatly painted white cot- 
tages were cosily nestled, presented a pleasant picture 
during those cool December days. 

The weather became excessively cold a fcAV days after 
our arrival. Considerable snow fell. Rude chimneys 
were hastily constructed in our tents, but with all his la- 
bor the soldier was only comfortable when snugly stowed 
away in his bed. When the weather became more mod- 
erate the Brigade commenced work on Fort Thomas. 
Finally the 102d was ordered to finish the fort and garri- 
son it until further orders. 3 



26 HISTOKY OF THE 102D ILL, INFANTRY VOLS. 

In the meantime there were many of " war's alarms." 
The first occurred at the time of the Hartsville disaster. 
The startling news came one quiet Sabbath eyeningthat 
the enemy, — six thousand strong — had surprised our 
forces at that place ; fifteen miles distant — killing and 
capturing the entire garrison, saTe a few strngglers. 
Their captures included part of Nicklin's Battery, and 
the wagon train and stores belonging to the command. 
Our forces were commanded by Col. Moore, and consist- 
ed of a brigade of infantry, three hundred cavalry, and 
a section of Xicklin's Battery. The rebel victory was 
complete. This was one of the minor lessons of the 
war which taught our officers the necessity of eternal 
vigilance. 

The morning after the disaster we were aroused at an 
early hour and ordered to be in readiness to move at a 
moment's notice. But no move was made. The next 
night we were ordered to hold ourselves in readiness to 
meet the advancing enemy ; every preparation was made 
for a fight ; we " slept upon our arms " and were up ere 
the " first faint streaks of dawn " appeared in the East, 
but the enemy did not come. Again, on the next night, 
the " long roll " sounded ; the men tumbled out of bed ; 
fiew to arms, and were rapidly formed in line of battle. 
After shivering awhile in the cold they learned that they 
were the victims of another false alarm. 

But those days were not altogether gloomy. While in 
our first camp at Gallatin an installment of luxuries from 
home was received by several companies of the regiment. 
Cans of preserves, piles of cakes, green apples, dried 
apples, cheese and choice butter ! What a princely bill 
of fare for soldiers ! Many were the delighted recipients 
of warm mittens, gloves, stockings, and a host of minor 
articles, such as pins, needles, thread, ink, pens, writing 
paper and postage stamps. The lucky ones liberally 
shared their luxuries with those who unfortunately 
received none. For many days there was a heavy dis- 
count on " fat pork and hard crackers." After a boun- 
tiful meal of the good things had been dispatched it was 
common for the men to gather about their camp-fires 
and smoke their fragrant cigars with all the gravity 
becoming gentlemen of leisure. 



ORDERED INTO WINTER QUARTERS. 27 

The articles were contributed by friends at home. 
The soldiers were much indebted to Capt. J. A. Jordan 
for his zeal and perseverance in taking charge of the 
goods, shipping them to their destination and delivering 
them in person to the men. 

About the first of December the command of the Post 
Sit Gallatin was given to Brig. Gen. E. A. Paine. Gen. 
Dumont, our Division commander, had resigned, and all 
the troops at the Post were ordered to report to General 
Paine. The General made a speech to us shortly after 
our arrival. He referred to the anomalous position of 
the amateur soldier ; — -characterized the strict discipline 
liecessary to the proper discharge of the soldier's duties 
as repulsive to the feelings of Americans, yet urged its 
absolute necessity, and asked us to preserve untarnished 
the brilliant name Illinois had already won in the annals 
of the war. He was followed by Gen. Ward, who is a 
very fluent speaker. He paid a glowing tribute to Illi- 
nois soldiers, and his speech was of course well received. 

Our Brigade was ordered into winter quarters about 
the 10th of December. Tlu^ 70th Ind. Regt. camped 
near the race-course, i^ortheast of the town — a detach- 
ment from that regiment was stationed at Sandersville. 

The 105th Ill's. Reg't went into camp about a half 
mile east of town, and the 79th Oliio Reg't camped 
about the same distance nortli. 

The 102d went into winter quarters at Fort Thomas 
on the 12th of December. Companies I, K and G were 
detailed the following day as Provost Guards, and were 
assigned comfortable quarters in houses around the Pub- 
lic Square. Co. C was sent to Station Creek — ^three 
miles south of town — ^to guard a railroad bridge, and 
was there soon established in good quarters. The 
company had a splendid position, — the men led a free 
and easy life ; foraging extensively and conseqently liv- 
ing like princes. The companies that remained at Fort 
Thomas constructed underground chimnies, or fire-places 
in their tents, and thus all were prepared for inclement 
weather. Thus divided, the regiment passed the gloom- 
iest period of its term of service. Lieut. Col. Smitli 
and Major Mann on were in poor health, ami were 



28 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTKY VOLS. 

much of the tmie absent. Many of the men were sick.. 
Our numbers were rapidly diminishing on account of 
resignations, deaths and discharges. The eflect of di- 
viding the regiment was unfavorable to advancement in 
our profession as soldiers. 

The military situation, East and West, was unsatisfac- 
tory, and the startling reports of disaffection in the 
North added to the general gloom. Although there was 
but little transpiring in our immediate vicinity, we could 
almost hear the rush and the roar of the distant stoi-m, 
and the creaking timbers of the Ship of State, — buffet- 
ing the waves. Two long years had passed since the 
setting of the sun of peace, and as we looked back 
through the shadoAvs of increasing night, the glory of 
those halcyon days seemed ever more enchanting. Could 
they ever return to us ? 

The battle of Murfreesboro afforded but slight relief. 
Within hearing of the guns we awaited the issue of the 
contest with intense solicitude. As the smoke cleared 
away it became evident that the advantages gained were 
secured at a terrible cost. IIow different the result 
might have been if our arniy had been in fighting quali- 
ties, up to the standard it reached a year later. And 
here the secession sjTiipathizers and the croakers in the 
North might have detected some of the fruits of their 
work. Many of our soldiers were discouraged and did 
not engage in the battle with the enthusiasm which bore 
down all opposition at Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge 
Resaca and Atlanta. Bravery was not wanting. No 
braver men ever breathed than those who restored the 
fortunes of the day and held in check the surging masses 
of rebels on the ever memorable 31st of December, — 
they wanted the prestige of success. 

During the dark days of our sojourn in Gallatin, the 
mortality on account of disease in the different regi- 
ments was absolutely frightful. Daily, almost hourly, 
the sound of tlie muffled drum and the plaintive dirge 
fell upon our ears. 

In addition to all this, the weather was for a long time 
very inclement. Cold rains were frequent, and occa- 
sionallv snow fell. 



A. HAPPY CONTRABAND. 29 

The only class of people that seemed contented amid 
so much misery was the colored commmiity. They 
enjoyed their usual festivities, cotillon parties, etc. My 
mind reverts to one or two sleek, sable lasses who were 
accustomed to dance on the pavement with every mani- 
festation of ecstatic delight wlien the martial bands 
would play, on their return from the burial of a soldier. 
A funeral was evidently a treat to these miserable crea- 
tures. 

At the opening of Spring the regiment had dwindled 
away from nine hundred and twenty-one to a small frac- 
tion over seven hundred men. But a brighter day was 
at hand. The regiment had passed through the ordeal 
of purification. Much of the useless material, rank and 
file, ]iad been thrown off as an effete encumbrance. 

Lieut. Col. Smith commenced the work of introducing 
some ideas of discipline into the minds of the men. He 
conducted battalion drill every day and ordered com- 
pany and squad drill. Harmony was in a measure 
secured among the officers. A strong prejudice existed 
against the Colonel, but the soldiers were treated by him 
as friends and as fellow citizens — temporarily subser- 
vient to the military powers. He thus won their confi- 
dence and in a measure overcame their j^rejudice. 
Under his command the highest possible degree of per- 
sonal liberty, consistent with the good of the service, was 
enjoyed by the men. 

During the winter months of 1862-3 there were 
several of the " Morgan-alarms " which had caused so 
much excitement about the time of our arrival. 

Most frequently these alarms were created by exag- 
gerated stories of excited contrabands. The magnify- 
ing powers of a negro's imagination under certain con- 
ditions are wonderful. Having seen a few guerillas a 
short distance from town, they would come in, exhausted 
from running, and with distended eyes, report " Jolin 
Mawgan comiii' Tight down dar with all his foce .'" 
<^uickly the order to get ready for a " brush," would fly 
from camp to camp. With wonderful energy the Post 
Quartermaster would have his wagons wheeled into line 
and interlocked across the streets, presenting a formid- 
able barrier to the progress of the chivalry. 



30 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

So frequent were these alarms that a sarcastic Ten- 
nessee poetess referrmg to them was constrained to point 
her sarcasm in a parody on " Maryland, my Maryland," 
which ran thus : 

" The Yankees they get scared at night : 
Blockade the sti'eets with all their might ; 

Would'st know the cause — old S is " tight." 

GaUatin ! My Gallatin ! 

But John never came to see us. A small affair occurred 
up the railroad, however, which I will briefly notice. 

On the 28th of April an order came to the regiment 
about nine o'clock a. m., directing the Colonel to have 
two hundred of his men suj)plied with two days rations, 
and to report with them immediately for a scout — Col. 
B. J. Sweet to be chief in command. The men were 
soon ready. We marched to the depot and took the 
morning train in the direction of Louisville. It was a 
lovely morning. Spring had come, and the birds were 
singing amid the foliage of the trees. Could it be that 
an enemy lurked in the depths of those dark green 
woods ? 

Fifty of our detachment had been left at Gallatin on 
account of insufficient means of transportation. Fifty 
more were left at Franklin — twenty-seven miles from 
Crallatin. Three miles north of Franklin, as we were 
Hearing a thick wood, the whistle screamed, the train 
suddenly halted, and a volley of balls was thrown into 
and around the cars. Quick as lightning, there was a 
blaze of musketry from the windows of the cars. The 
rebels instantly ran. Our men started enmasse right 
after them but were checked by Col. Sweet. Skirmish- 
ers were sent out. Capt. Wilson followed them with 
his Co. (K,) — accompanied by Col. Smith. The pursuit 
was kept up for a short distance, but was ineffisctual. 

The rebels had displaced a rail and evidently intended 
to make short work with the train. They were hand- 
somely checkmated. There were not more than twenty- 
five of the villains. They lost two men killed outright 
and several wounded and captured. Five of our regi- 
ment were wounded — two mortally. A little drmnmer- 
boy of some other regiment, who had been furloughed 
and Avas on his way home, had one of his legs shattered 
by a ball. Tliis was our first " brush " with the enemy. 



RESIGNATIONS AXD PROMOTIONS. 31 

Col. McMurtry visited the regiment during the month 
of March nnd tendered his resignation, which was 
accepted. Lieut. Col. Smitli who had been chosen to 
succeed him by a vote of the officers, when the regiment 
was at Bowling Green, was then commissioned and 
mustered as Colonel. By this change, Major J. M. 
Mannon became Lieut. Colonel, and Capt. L. D. Shinn 
succeeded him as Major. 

While at Gallatin, the following additional changes 
occurred: Dr. D. B. Rice joined the regiment as Sur- 
geon in charge, and Dr. T. S. Stanway joined as Asst. 
Surgeon. Sergt. J. E. Huston, of. Co. K, became Cliap- 
lain, vice Rev. M. K. TuUis, resigned. Sergt. Major 
J. H. Snyder was commissioned Adjutant; vice J. W. 
Pitman resigned. By the resignation of Capt. Harding 
and Lieut. Gentry, Lieut Callaghan became Captain of 
Co. A, and Sergt. T. H. Andrews was promoted to 1st 
Lieutenant. 

In Co. F, by the resignation of 1st Lieut. Orlando 
Sullivan, 2d Lieut. G. W. Woolley became 1st Lieuten- 
ant, and 1st Sergt. Robert S. Peebles succeeded him 

as 2d Lieutenant. 

.• . 
In Co. D, by the resignation of Capt. Wilsie, 1st Lieut. 

H. Clay became Captain ; 2d Lieut. J. B. Nixon was 

promoted to 1st Lieutenant, and 1st Sergt. O. B. Mat- 

teson Avas promoted to 2d Lieutenant. 

In Co. C, by the resignation of Capt. F. Shedd, 1st 
Lieut. Almond Shaw became Captain, and 2d Lieut. A. 
H. Trego was promoted to 1st Lieutenant; 1st Sergt. 
Byron Jordan succeeded him as 2d Lieutenant. 

1st. Lieut. Dan W. Sedwick was promoted to Cap- 
tain of Co. E, vice Capt. Thos. Likely resigned. 2d 
Lieut. T. G. Brown became 1st Lieutenant, and Sergt. 
John Allison succeeded the latter as 2d Lieutenant. 

1st Lieut. Wm. A. "Wilson became Capt. of Co. K, 
vice Capt. S. H. Rodgers resigned. 2d ]jieut. J. Y. 
Merrit was promoted to 1st Lieutenant, and Sergt. S. E. 
Willits succeeded the latter as 2d Lieutenant. 



32 HISTORY OF THE ] 02d ILL. INFANTRY YOLS. 

In Co. G, 1st Lieut. Isaac McManus was promoted to 
Captain— v/ce Capt. J. P. WycolF resigned. 2d Lieut. 
Wm. H. Brido-ford was promoted to 1st Lieutenant, and 
1st Sergt. L. P. Blackbuni became 2d Lieutenant. He 
soon resigned and Sergt. Aaron G. Henry was promoted 
to 2d Lieutenant. 

1st Lieut. Wm. M. Armstrong became Captain of Co. 
B, vice Capt. E. C. Atchison resigned 2d Lieutenant. 
J. C. Beswick was promoted to "ist Lieutenant, and 
Sergt. Ambrose Stegall succeeded him as 2d Lieutenant. 

On the 1st day of June, 1863, the regiment received 
marching orders. Before proceeding with an account of 
the forward movement I will give a 

REMINISCENCE OF GALLATIN. 
A LTnion man had been killed in Wilson Co., Tenn., 
under circumstances of peculiar barbarity. After killing 
him the bushwhackers cut out his tongue. Gen. Paine 
secured^ a number of guerillas against whom there was 
convincing proof of complicity in the brutal murder. 
One of these men was in the liands of the Provost Mar- 
shal, Major S. In company with Lieut. Trego, I called 
on the Major, and we requested permission to see the 
prisoner. The Major granted o^r request and accom- 
panied us to the jail— which was an ordinary building of 
the kind — gloomy and forbidding in its external appear- 
ance. The guard gave way to admit us at the bidding 
of the Major. Passing along an alley we halted at a side 
door — a huge iron door — which grated dismally as it 
swung upon its hinges. Through the doorway we passed 
into a dark and dingy apartment. The darkness and 
dampness of the place, and the foul atmosphere reminded 
nie of dismal dungeons that I had read of in stories of 
imprisonment and persecution. 

The Major called for a light, and as it threw its flick- 
ering rays into the surrounding gloom we w^ere enabled 
to discern a number of persons in the apartment. One 
of these was lying upon the ground near the wall — con- 
fined there so closely that he'could only move his hands. 
Lie was lying upon his back. This was the rufiian guer- 
rilla Major S turned to the guard and said: 

' VV hat do you feed this man ?" The ^uard stated the 



REMINISCENCE OP GALLATIX. 33 

amount "and kind of rations he had been giving him. 
" Hereafter give him but a half cracker per day. He is 
not tied as tightly as he should be — tighten him down !'' 
Then to the prisoner : " We hung two of yom* comrades 
the other day, but we can finish you in a diiferent way — 
it will not take a man long to starve to death on a half 
( 1 cracker per day." 

There was a number of black prisoners in the room ; 
the Major turned to them and said : " I am sorry these 
blacks must be confined in the room with this villain — it 
is a burning disgrace to the 'niggers.' " [These were 
his words substantially — I cannot repeat them ver- 
batim.] 

The man, up to this time, had said nothing — his coun- 
tenance wearino; a bitter and desnairimx look. Turnino; 
his eyes at length towards the Major, he said : 

[li " Major, will you allow me to say a few words to 
you ?" 

" Not a d d word. You assisted in depriving a 

loyal man of his tongue, and you shall not be allowed 
the use of yours." 

Thus the poor wretch was taunted, only with more 
severity than I have written. 

Gladly we turned to go. The great door creaked on 
its hinges and closed on the doomed mjm, leaving him in 
darkness and despair. I have been informed that he was 
subsequently hung at Murfreesboro. Dark as his crime 
/ was, we could not approve the spirit of vindictiveness 
manifested in treating him with so much severity. 



34 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 



chaptp:r iy. 

Departure from Gallatin. Arrival at Lavergne. Steic- 
art^s OreeTc. Mailroad gtuirdlng. Pleasant soldier- 
ing. A night ride. Nein disposition of troops. 
Regimental Headquarters at Lavergne. Armed with 
Spencer Mifles. The Lebanon Scout. A thrilling 
adventure. 

The bri2:arle was transferred from Gallatin to Lavergne 
by railroad, on tlie first day of June, 1863. From tliat 
place the 102d marched on the 2d to Stewart's Creek. 
The regiment was there divided. Co.'s E, K and G- 
camped near the railroad bridge across Stewart's Creek, 
and were under the immediate command of Lieut. Col. 
Mannon. Co. H, Capt. Hiram Elliott commanding, was 
stationed at Overall's Creek, in close proximity to the 
battle-ground of Murfreesboro. Co. B at Smyrna. The 
remaining companies were stationed about three-fourths 
of a mile from the railroad bridge, at Stewart's Creek, 
near a small fort. There Col. Smith established regi- 
mental headquarters. Thus located we -remained until 
the 19th day of August. 

The intermediate time was occupied in drilling, visiting 
our friends at the fi-ont — visiting the Murfreesboro 
battle-ground, and picking blackberries — varying the 
routine of exercises by an occasional scout. 

Regimental and company drills were ]:»unctually 
observed. Lieut. Col. Mannon drilled his detachment 
daily, and the "left wing" under his instructions made 
rapid progress. The two wings (excepting Co.'s II and 
]>) united in battallio]i drill eacli day, in an open field 
near the i-ailroad. 

Col. Smith l)y diligent application had become tac- 
tically " master of the situation" and under his direc- 
tion the I'egiment maneuvered on battallion drill with 
tlie precision of a veteran organization. 



PLEASANT DAYS AT STEWARt's CKEEK. 35 

Those battallion drills — somewhat obnoxio.us to us 
then, on account of the excessive heat — did much to pre- 
pare us for subsequent active campaigns. 

Those were pleasant days in our regimental history. 
The citizens w^ere generally hospitable. The young 
ladies of the neighborhood were pretty, and many of 
them accomplishe^d. They loved to sing the "Bonny 
Blue Flag " and the " Home Spun Dress "_ to our men. 
In return, the singers of the regiment sometimes favored 
them with the " Star Spangled^Banner," and the " Song 
of a Thousand Years" or "Rally Round the Flag, 
Boys." 

Blackberries ! — how natural the transition from pretty 
oirls to luscious blackberries ! This tempting fruit grew 
m unparalleled abundance in that vicinity. There were 
immense quantities within the picket lines, and a few 
miles from camp there were large fields of briars bur- 
dened with berries. Morning, noon and evening they 
Avere placed on our table, and we had stewed blackber- 
ries, blackberry pies, dumplings and blackberries with 
iiiilk — tlie latter a substitute for cream. 

Writing at that time of those pleasant days, I used 
the following language, which, in the light of subse- 
quent events,"has a deeper interest. I wrote of " listening 
to our musical Adjutant, with his guitar, singing a vari- 
ety of sweet songs. Mingling with the rich notes of 
the instrument we'heard the beautiful words : 

" Weeping sad and lonely, 
Hopes and fears how vain, 

Yet praying — 
When this cruel war is over 
Praying that we meet again." 

And — 

" Oh ! wrap the flag around me, boys," 

Or that other incomparable piece of music, commencing, 

" We shall meet but we shall miss him." 

And it was interestmg "to observe how quickly his im- 
promtpu concerts collected an audience in front of his 
quarters — the men all listening with quiet but intense in- 
terest." That sweet, sad music, echoed back through the 
years gone by, seems possessed of a prophetic sgnih- 
cance since the fate of the singer is now wrapped i^ 
impenetrable mystery. Of this, more anon. 



36 HISTORY OF THE 102D ILL. INFANTIIY VOLS. 

Guerillas were quite bold mid troublesome during iJie 
time we were at Stewart's Creek. A detachment oftlie 
10th Ohio Cavalry, which was encamped near us, and 
was under the command of Col. Smith, was often sent 
out after the miscreants, and was occasionally reinforced 
by a squad of mounted men from the 102d. Often these 
parties would have a jolly time before returning. 

On one occasion about sunset, word ran through camp 
that a scouting party was going out — the object being 
to intercept a number of rebels, who, report said were 
to meet at a house south of Stone lliver, preparatory to 
going south. All available horses and mules were quick- 
ly saddled, and we were soon en route for the barrens 
beyond the river. A number of the 10th Ohio Cavalry 
accompanied us. A repentant rebel who had made 
known the intentions of the rebels to the Colonel, was 
to act as guide. We rode to his house, but the guide 
could not be found — his lady stating that he had gone 
to the house of a neighbor. To the house of tlie neigh- 
bor we gallo])ed. " Not there — had been there that 
afternoon." Thence we liurried away to Stone Kiver, 
forming a long line in single file as we crossed the histo- 
ric little stream. At a farm house beyond, a colored 
guide was procured, to pilot us to a house about two 
miles distant where it was thought the migratory guide 
could be found. " Cuffey " led olf quite briskly and for 
miles we dashed along through the brush at a break-neck 
speed. At length the senseless haste of the guide was 
moderated, and we — six men of the 102d — discovered 
that we were far in advance of the main party. Reach- 
ing the house we learned that our " guide " had not been 
there. 

Knowing that we were so far away from the main 
body of the detachment that they could not find us, and 
confident that we could not find them, we Avere left to 
pur own resources. 

"Take us to Jefferson" said Mike, — a mule mounted 
Lieutenant, addressing the guide — and for Jefferson, a 
small town two miles up the river, we started. Mike 
Avas full of mischief and yelled out to the guide, " JFor- 
y:ard! faster r'' and away we went through the brush 
over logs and into dense bodies of cedars, " Faster !" 



HEA.D-QUARTEES AT LAVERGNE. 37 

yelled the Lieutenant, and over the rocks, leaping, slip- 
ping and stumbling — the horses shoes striking fire — 
onward we rode. At length the mad cap was induced 
to rein in his steed. Retbrding Stone River we rode 
into Jefferson — an antiquated little village, picturesquely 
located. All the inhalntants were wrapt in shimber. 
The moon had fairly ris;^i and its silvery light rendered 
the scene really romantic. 

Dispensing with our guide who did not seem to appre- 
ciate the romance or necessity of our night ride, we 
continued on towards camp. ]>ut another idiosyncrasy 
seized upon " Mike." He would have a swim in Stone 
River. Lieut. W. dashed off with him. The remainder 
of the party rode leisurely into camp, Avhieh was reached 
at two o'clock in the morning. The swimmers came in 
shortly afterwards and the entire detachment an hour or 
two later — having failed to accomplish the purpose for 
which it was sent^ 

At that time the Army of the Cumberland was con- 
centrated at Murfreesboro', but there Avere busy ])repara- 
tions for a forward movement The forces at Nashville, 
and at contiguous stations on the railroad were organized 
into a Reserve Corps and commanded by Maj. Gen. 
Gordon Granger. Under his direction a new disposition 
of troops was made between Nashville and Mui-freesboro\ 
Our brigade, (excepting the 102d) was ordered to Nash- 
ville. Col. Smith was directed to station six companies 
of his regiment along the railroad at the different stock- 
ades, and march with the remaining companies to 
Lavergne, establishing head-quarters at that place. 

This movement was effected on the 19th of August. 
Co. A was stationed at Stockade No. 3 on Mill Creek. 
Co. K, at Smyrna. Co. D, at Stockade No. 1 Mill Creek. 
Co. F, at Stockade No. 2, near Antioch, on Mill Creek. Co. 
H, at Overall's Creek. Co. K, at Stewart's Creek. Co's. 
I, C, E and G were stationed at Lavergne. The regi- 
ment, aided by about two hundred of the 10th Ohio 
Cavalry, guai'ded the railroad between Nashville and 
Murfreesboro' — a distance of thirty miles. The cavalry 
was subject to the orders of Col. Smith, and tlie Colonel 
facetiously remarked at the time that his command 



38 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

almost equaled that of Rosecrans, — his right resting 
near Murfreesboro,' and his left in the vicinity of Nash- 
ville ! The responsible duties of Post Commandant 
devolved upon him, and the citizens were constantly 
presenting cases of grievance, — often coming to him 
with cases of a civil nature. 

Lieut.-Col. Mannon was appointed Provost Marshal of 
the Post, and his office was thronged day after day 
with repentant rebels, who came in to take the oath of 
allegiance. Doubtless many of these men sincerely re- 
gretted their rebellious course. It is believed, howcA^er, 
that some came in to be " galvanized," in order to place 
themselves in a position to operate more effectually 
against the interests of the government. 

According to their standard of loyalty it was an easy 
matter to become possessed of that virtue. Cheap loy- 
alty was illustrated there by an incident which I will 
relate. 

Lieut. Courtney, Acting Quarter-Master at that time, 
had foraged some corn, or other article of subsistence at 
the " plantation " of an old citizen. The old gentleman 
came in to have the account adjusted. Calling upon 
Lieut. C. he asked receipts for the forage. The Lieuten- 
ant, being a little suspicious of the old fellow, asked 
liim if he Avas a loyal man. 

" O ! yes, sir; I'm a loyal man, sir; got the oath right 
here m my poclcet P'' 

Our camp was upon the crest of a hill near a some- 
wliat extensive eartliAvork, and a short distance in the 
rear of the site Avhere LaAT^rgne had been — through 
the Adcissitudes of Avar, the A'illage had been reduced to 
ashes — save two or three houses. 

Our eleA^ated encampment gave us a fine a Icaa'' of an 
immense A^alley, formed by the confluence of Stone River 
and the Cumberland. Often this loAvland Avas enveloped 
in a fog for some hours in the morning. Here and there 
were prominent points of timber, Avliich looked like 
islands in a mythical lake, the farther shore of Avhich 
Avas marked by a line of bold bluffs — fifteen or tAventy 
miles distant. 



HEAVY DUTIES IX GARRISOX. 39 

It was said that under fjivorable circumstances a 
ran2:e of the Cumberhmd mountains — fifty miles away — 
could be seen from our fort. 

^yllile encamped at Lavergne, tents were entirely ig- 
nored. A large number of elegant log huts had been 
vacated by the regiments which returned to Nashville. 
These were removed to our encampment and placed in 
regular order — forming a village of about fifty houses, 
with three streets. 

In these commodious huts, which were furnished Avith 
fire-place, bunks, tables, etc., we were well prepared for 
the approaching winter. 

Shortly after our arrival at Lavergne, Col. Smith re- 
ceived an order to have the four companies at that place 
mounted, and by a bit of skillful diplomacy he secured 
for the use of these companies, two hundred and twen- 
ty-five of the celebrated Spencer Rifies — also each man 
was supplied with one of Colt's or Remington's revolvers. 
Horses were foraged from the country. Several expedi- 
tions were made to the vicinity of Duck River for this 
purpose. In a very brief period, the four companies 
were mounted. 

From that time until the regiment was ordered to the 
front, the duties devolving upon the men, were more 
severe than are usually experienced by troops in gar- 
rison. 

At one time the four companies at Lavergne were 
compelled to assist in patroling the railroad, besides 
furnishing details for fatigue duty, picket duty, scout- 
ing, and being engaged in the work of getting out 
railroad ties. 

The companies at the stockades were similarly em- 
ployed, save that they had no scouting to do. 

It would take up more space than I have at my com- 
mand to give detailed sketches of the many interesting 
raids that were made by detachments of the regiment 
during our stay at Lavergne. A sketch of one may in- 
dicate what others Avere. 

On the 9th of Nov., 1863, Gen. Paine commenced a 
grand guerilla hunt, using tlie troops at Gallatin and at 



40 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

other points — as many as could be spared. A detach- 
ment of the 102d, one hmidred and thh'ty mounted men, 
commanded by Col. Smith, co-oj^erated from Lavergne. 

The evening of the ninth we marched until nine 
o'clock through the cedar brakes in Wilson county. 
Halted with an old planter. Took breakfast in squads 
through the neighborhood. Fared sumptuously, on such 
luxuries as biscuits, butter and milk. Reached Lebanon 
on the evening. of the 10th. Found things in much con- 
fusion. Citizens evidently had not expected a visit from 
us at that time. 

Lebanon is a pretty village. Citizens refined and hos- 
pitable, but many of them bitter rebels. The ladies 
particularly seemed infatuated with the dream of a 
Southern confederacy. The fair creatures declared they 
never could live under the old Government. The Con- 
federacy never could be overthrown until the last man 
had been slain. One elderly lady pointed her bony finger 
at the writer and said: "Mark my Avord, this war will 
never end until there is a Southern Confederacy." But 
the fine rhetoric of the ladies was not sufiicientto save it. 

They were great admirers of Gen. John H. Morgan. 
A citizen stated that as an expression of their admira- 
tion of his person and qualities, many of them had 
actually blocked his way when riding through the 
streets, and with their scissors clipped portions of the 
mane from the neck of a beautiful mare which he rode — 
intending to preserve the horse hair as a memento of 
their beloved General. 

Col. Smith was appointed Post Commander, and with 
part of his detachment garrisoned the town, while the 
remainder with other troops continued the scout. 

Post head-quarters were established at the Court 
house in the registrar's office, and for a time the quiet 
village of Lebanon was the scene of active military 
operations. 

AVhile there, General Paine came into the Colonel's 
oflice one day, and a liquor dealer was brought before 
him. Gen. P. Avas in one of his most savage moods, 
and gave us the following specimens of his invective 
style : 



GE^. PAINE AND THE LIQUOR DEALER. 41 

General. I understand that you have been selling 
this infernal tangle-foot, which puts the devil into the 
minds of peaceable citizens, and causes them to rob and 
murder their neighbors. 

Citizen. I have been selling whiskey, but only to 
citizens. 

General. It is just as bad to sell to citizens as to the 
rebel soldiers, for wliisky turns out more hell-born rebels 
tlian all other causes put together. Now, I will tell you 
what you must do — take a hatchet, go to your doggery, 
burst in the head of every whisky barrel you have, and 
pour it upon the ground. Leave not a drop — not a 
spoonful about your premises. Perhaps you think I am 
not in earnest ? 

Citizen. I have no reason to think so. 

General. And more — if I learn hereafter that you 
have been selling whisky, (and I will know it if you 
do) I will make a bonfire of your doggery, and I will tie 
you up by your thumbs and feed you on bread and 
water for forty-eight hours. I will dry up this infernal 
traffic even if compelled to use fire-brands and hempen 
ropes. 

(Exit citizen, looking pale and troubled.) 

While our forces were in Lebanon the bodies of two 
bushwhackers were brought into town. They had been 
killed by the 4th Middle Tennessee Cavalry in retalia- 
tion for the murder of four men of that regiment by 
guerrillas. The cavalrymen declared that the two dead 
bushwhackers were but " two out of forty " to be shot 
before the account would be settled. 

General Paine, Col. Smith and other officers of rank 
were hospitably entertained at the house of Col. Price, 
during the occupation of the town. Col. Price had been a 
staunch Union man from the beginning of the secession 
movement, and at one time was compelled to leave his 
home on account of his principles. 

On the third day of our occupation, the scouting par- 
ties came in. They had killed about a dozen bush- 
whackers, and captured as many as twenty rebel soldiers. 



42 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. IXFANTEY VOLS. 

At noon, Nov. 1 Otb, Lebanon was relieved of its Yankee 
garrison, and we rode through thick cedars over one of 
the most rocky roads in Wilson county, to our camp — 
distant twenty-seven miles. Reached Lavergne at 8 
o'clock p. M. 

During the time we were at Lavergne, Captain 
AYm. A. Wilson and Surgeon T. S. Stanway became the 
principal actors in a very exciting adventure. 

They had been visiting the stockade at which Co. D 
was stationed — ten miles from Lavergne in the direction 
of j^ashville. At dusk they set out for camp. It was a 
bright moonlight evening, and they anticipated a pleas- 
ant ride — little apprehending that more than a score of 
ruffians were lying in wait for them. 

When nearly half way to camp, riding leisurely along, 
in the shade of dense cedars, and engaged in a some- 
what animated conversation, they Avere confronted by 
four men on horse-back, who jjresented revolvers to 
their heads with the words : 

" Surrender — you are our prisoners." 

Li an instant Doctor S. had his pistol to his eye, and 
his first shot was fired simultaneously with their first 
volley. Unluckily, Capt. W^ilson's pistols were buckled 
in the holsters in such a way that valuable time was lost 
in getting them out. Meanwhile the bullets of the 
guerrillas were whistling familiarly about the ears of om- 
officers. One clipped the handsome whiskers of the 
Captain ; another grazed his temple. At the Doctor's 
first fire one of the scoundrels thrcAV up his hands and 
exclaimed, " I'm hit." 

The combatants were so close together that their horses' 
heads almost touched each other when the affray com- 
menced. Others of the guerrillas, who had been stationed 
at the roadside, now closed in upon them. The Doctor 
was blazing away at them, and the Captain had com- 
menced working his piece in good earnest when a 
desperate hand to hand' fight ensued. Doctor S. met 
one of them at arm's length. The rebel leveled his pistol 
at the Doctor's head, but the latter struck down the 
pistol with his own an instant before it was discharged ; 
the ball however entered his right leg and shattered it 



THRILLIXG ADVENTURE. 43 

above the knee. Then for a time he endeavored to 
escape, but feeling that his wound was too severe, and 
that he was about to fall from his horse, he steadied 
himself to the ground and made no further resistance. 

Seeing the hopelessness of continuing the struggle, the 
Captain, being mounted on a fleet animal, dashed away 
down the pike, the balls of the enemy " zipping " around 
him. For at least two miles the desperate race contin- 
ued, the bushwhackers at the outset riding parallel with 
him. Repeatedly the Captain fired at them as his good 
steed flew along the pike. At length he began to gain 
upon them very perceptibly, when a shot struck his horse 
in tjie tliigh, inflicting a severe flesh w^ound. Still, for a 
time he increased the distance that separated him from 
his pursuers, and had got beyond their view when the 
animal faltered, staggared and seemed ready to fall. 
Dismounting he plunged into the thick cedars. A peace- 
able citizen, who met him the moment his horse failed, 
went with him, and seemed equally desirous of avoiding 
the guerrillas. They proceeded some distance and halted 
in an obscure place. The rebels followed, carefully 
searching in their immediate vicinity — then retired. All 
was still. They ventured to change their position ; — 
again the enemy approached. The Captain and compan- 
ion laid low and breathed lightly. Nearer they came, 
circling around their would-be victim, and cursing then 
luck in losing the game. The Captain had given his 
companion one of his pistols, intending to " sell out" as 
dearly as possible, if discovered. Again the rebels re- 
tired, and the two fugitives again changed their position. 
Once more the scoundrels approached, searched dili- 
gently very near them, but finally despairing of success, 
returned to their horses and galloped away. 

The Captain then endeavored to reach a stockade 
about two. miles distant, but had become bewildered 
among the cedars, and discovering that he was utterly 
lost, he remained in the woods until morning, when he 
came into camp. Dr. Stanway was robbed of every- 
thing valuable and in a helpless condition was left upon 
the srround. While the guerrillas were taking: from him 
his overcoat, vest, dress-coat and watch, they uj^braided 



44 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. IXFANTEY VOLS. 

him for his stubbornness, and s;iid he should be shot for 
being so fool-liardy as to fi(rht against so many. Citi- 
zens living near, heard the firing, and repairing to the 
place after it was over, took charge of the Doctor. 

It Avas many months before he could report for duty, 
and his wounded limb will doubtless trouble him through 
life. 

While encamped at Stewart's Creek and Lavergne, 
the following changes took place in the regiment. Capt. 
C. H. Jackson became Major, vice Major L. D. Shinn, 
resi2:ned. Dr. William Hamilton became Sureceon in 
Charge, vice Surgeon D. B. Rice, resigned. Citizen 
Ilobart Hamilton became Regimental Quarter-Master, 
^'ice Lieut. F, 11. Rugar, promoted and transferred. 

In Co. A, 1st Lieut. T. H. Andrews was promoted to 
Captain, vice Capt. CMlaghan resigned. Sergeant 
M. L. Courtney of Co. I, was transferred to Co. A and 
promoted to First Lieut. 

In Co. F, 1st Lieut. G. W. Woolley was promoted to 
Captain, vies C. H. Jackson, who had become Major. 
2d Lieut. Robert S. Peebles then became First Lieut. 

In Co. I, by the i^csignation or dismissal of Capt. 
Geo. 11. King, 1st Lieut. Ed. H. Conger became Captain. 
1st Sergt. D. W. Sheahan was promoted to 1st Lieut. 
2d Lieut. J. L. BoddoH resigned. 

First lieut. Hiram Elliott became Captain of Co. H, 
vice L. 1). Shinn, who had been promoted to position of 
Major. 2d Lieut. John Thomas became 1st Lieut., and 
1st Sergt. Samuel Tucker was promoted to 2d Lieut. 

In Co. B, 2d Lieut. Ambrose Stegall was promoted to 
First Lieut.i mce J. C. Keswick resigned. 



DEPARTURE rRO:M LAVERGXE. 45 



CHAPTER V. 

JlaynoTs of a move to the Front. The Citizens protest 
— in vain. The march. 

About the beginning of February, 1864, rumors be- 
came rife in camp that our brigade would soon be 
transferred to the front. 

The refjiment had remained so lono; at Lavero-ne that 
the thought of leaving was not unlike the thought of 
leaving home. The citizens had been kind to us, and 
our boys loved the comparatively free life they were 
leading, and some of them doubtless were in love with 
the charming Tennessee lasses who abounded in that 
vicinity. 

But at length the order came. Immediately the citi- 
zens circulated a petition asking the military authorities 
to permit us to remain as a garrison for the Post. The 
reader will pardon the introduction of the petition here, 
when I assure him that it contains several important 
declarations which I consider true, but would not have 
made on my own authority ! Here it is : 

*' Major General Thomas, Comdg. Dept. of the Cumberland: 

Sir: We, the undersigned citizens of Rutherford, Davidson and 
Wilson counties, residing in the vicinity of Lavergne, Tenn., here- 
by earnestly and respectfully request that the 102d Illinois Vols, be 
permitted to remain in its present position, if consistent with the 
good of the service, for the following reasons: 

They have— officers and men — ever conducted themselves as gen- 
tlemen. 

The country has been rid of bushwhackers, thieves and highway 
robbers, by their vigilance. 

Justice has been done the citizens, and the good of the service 
generally been promoted under their able, just and judicious com- 
mander. Col. Smith. 

We feel that to retain him and his command here will insure a 
continuance of peace, quiet, and good will in this vicinity." 

(Signed) Maxy Citizens. 



46 HISTORY OF TFIE 102d ILL. IXFAXTRY VOLS. 

In obedieRce to the dictates of the weather, which 
was very inclement, the movement was temporarily sus- 
pended, but the military powers were inexorable, and on 
Thursday the 25th of Feb., positive orders were received 
to be in readiness to move at an early hour the follow- 
ing morning. The VOtli Indiana, 79th Oh'o, 129th and 
105th Illinois regiments inarched from Nashville to La- 
vergne on the 25th. 

On Friday morning, February 26th, the 102d aban- 
doned the pleasant little village of log huts and marched 
with the brigade towards the front — the men carrying 
shelter tents for their future homes as soldiers. Hither- 
to, excepting brief periods, our soldiering had been of 
the most agreeable character, so far as physical comfort 
is considered. Thenceforward we were destined to 
march through shadows as well as sunlight. At that 
time six companies of the regiment were mounted. 
They were permitted to retain their horses until further 
orders. 

Co. I, then commanded by Lieut. D. W. Sheahan, was 
detailed as body guard for Gen. Ward, Avho was in com- 
mand of the division. 

At the risk of being monotonous, I w^ill, for the satis- 
faction of the soldiers who were there, give a brief 
sketch of each day's march. 

The brigade camped a short distance south of Mur- 
freesboro', in the afternoon of the first day — Feb. 26th. 

Resumed the march at an early hour next morning ; 
passed through a sterile region and went into camp 
thirteen miles south of Murfreesboro'. 

Left camp on the 28th at five o'clock a. m. ; roads very 
dusty. By noon reached Shelbyville — a pretty little 
village of about one thousand inhabitants, the county 
seat of Bedford county. Crossed Duck river at Shelby- 
ville and camped three miles south of the stream. 
Marched sixteen miles. Rain commenced falling before 
the camp was estabhshed, and continued to tail all night. 

February 29th was a cold, cheerless, rainy day. The 
troops moved at sunrise ; marched fourteen miles and 
reached Tullahoma — an insignificant railroad station. 
That night a small stream near the camp overflowed its 



EXROUTE FOR THE FROiSTT. 47 

banks and submerged a portion of the camping ground, 
lining most of the tents with water to the depth of six 
inches. It was a wretched night; cold and very dark. 
The men could build no fires as wood could not be ob- 
tained. 

Moved March 1st to a new encampment a mile and a 
half east of the town, contiguous to an abandoned Una 
of rebel fortifications. It rained the greater part of the 
day. 

Resumed the march at nine o'clock a. m. March 2d. 
Passed through a poor, flat and thinly settled region 
and camped near Elk river, nine miles from Tullahoma. 
The niixht was cold, and the men made themselves com- 
fortable by building large fires in front ol then- tents. 

The troops moved at eight o'clock a. im., March 3d. 
Passed through Dechard, and went into camp at Cowan 
Station, ten miles from Elk river. 

March 4th, passed over the Raccoon Mountains — a 
spur of the Cumberland range. Owing to a blunder of 
the officer in command of the advance guard, the troops 
marched some distance on the wrong road, and were 
compelled to retrace their steps. Reached Tantallon in 
the afternoon and went into camp, seven miles from 
Cowan Station. A heavy rain fell during the night. 

The troops remained in camp on the 5th until two 
o'clock in the afternoon, then marched three miles. The 
102d was assigned a beautifnl camp on a hill that over- 
looked the other regiments of the brigade. The many 
camp fires twinkling at night in the valley and on sur- 
rounding hills rendered the scene very beautiful. 

Marched fourteen miles on the 6th, and reached Steven- 
son, Alabama. 

Passed through Stevenson on the 7th, marched eleven 
miles and went into camp near Bridgeport on the Ten- 
nessee river. 

Remained in camp during the 8th. Marched next 
morninof throuo-h Brido-eport and across the Tennessee, 
passed Shell Mound, followed up the river and passed 
from Alabama into Tennessee. Camped thirteen miles 
from Bridgeport. 



48 HISTOEY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

Follow.ed lip Falling Water Creek on tlie 10th. Passed 
Whiteside station and Sand Mountain. Marched twelve 
miles ; reached Wanhatchie Valley at three o'clock p. m., 
and the tedious march was over. There the troops were 
to rest preparatory to a general movement against Gen. 
Joe Johnston's rebel army. 

While the regiment was encamped in the valley, the 
weather was much of the time very cold, and on the 22d 
of March an extraordinary fall of snow took place. It 
commenced about two o'clock in the morning ; before 
noon the ground was covered to the depth of a foot. 
Such an immense fall of snow, in the spring season, so 
far down in the Sunnj^ South must have been a novelty 
to the oldest inhabitant. 

Snowballing became for a brief period, an all exciting 
pastime in camp. 

A few days of alternate rain and sunshine sufficed to 
leave the earth bare again. 

A grand review took place on the 19th. Major Gens. 
Howard and Hooker were the chief reviewing officers. 

The men were much occupied during the last weeks of 
March, in constructing and beautifying their quarters. 
The month of April was occupied in active military ex- 
ercises. 

There were daily drills, company and battalion. Dress 
parade each day. Regimental inspection CA'ery few 
days. Brigade drill almost every day, and occasionally 
division drill. Our regiment had an officer's school, and 
our enterprising chaplain, as if to vary the monotonous 
routine, commenced a phonographic school. 

Officers and men improved the opportunity while at 
Wauhatchie to ascend Lookout Mountain. The scene 
from the summit is said to be grand beyond description. 
The eye roams until wearied over vast plains, varied by 
occasional elevations which seem in their dim and shad- 
owy outlines, to be the boundaries of some fairy land. 

From the highest elevation on old Lookout, the terri- 
tory of seven States come within the range of vision. 

On the 14th of April there was a grand review of the 
Division by Maj. Gen. Thomas. 



A BEAUTIFUL EXCAMPMEXT. 49 

An order w;is received on the 16th annonncinc^ that 
our brigade would, uatil farther orders, be known as the 
1st Brigade of the 3d Division, 20th Army Corps, the 
11th and 12th Corps having been consoUdated, forming 
the 20th — Maj. Gen. Joseph Hooker commanding, — Maj. 
Gen. Daniel Butterfield commanding the Division, and 
Brig. Gen. W. T. Ward, the Brigade. 

While at Wauhatchie, the mounted com.panies of the 
regiment gave up their horses, in accordance with orders 
from Corps Head-Quarters. An order was also received 
directing the regiment to turn over the Spencer Riiles to 
an ordnance officer, and draw Springfield Rifled Muskets. 
Want of time prevented the execution of this order 
previous to the commencement of the Atlanta Campaign. 
After that time it was inexpedient to make the change. 

The camp at Wauhatchie Valley will be remembered 
as the most beautiful and romantic that the regiment 
ever occupied. The scenery was grand. Old Lookout 
Mountain loomed up magnificently a short distance east- 
ward, the clouds wreathing themselves around her 
rugged summit; her sides covered with a dense growth 
of cedars and piiies. 

As if in rivalry with nature", the different regiments of 
the brigade surpassed all previous ideas of taste and ele- 
gance in decorating their encampments. 

The camp of the 102d was on a small table-land, just 
laro;e enoucrh for one reg-iment. It was laid off with 
great care. The houses were of a uniform size; the 
streets were graded and macadamized. Elegant arches, 
made of cedar boughs, were put up in the quarters of 
each company. Inwoven with the arches were various 
beautiful designs. One bore the names "Grant" 
— " Sherman " — " Thomas," — arrainged in a triangle. 
Another bore Masonic emblems, — the compass, square, 
etc. A large eagle was represented beneath one of the 
arches, apparently in the act of flying. Among other 
beautiful objects a pulpit was prominent. It was erected 
in open air, and was a perfect model of taste and inge- 
nuity. The design was very similar to that of an 
ordinary church pulpit, with columns at each side. Be- 
tween the columns was a cross. The cross and the columns 



60 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. IIS-PANTRY VOLS. 

were wreathed with evergreens. The flag and banner 
were drooped in elegant folds at each side of the cross. 
The back part of the pulpit was elegantly wreathed. 
The floor and steps were carpeted with green boughs. 
The pulpit was constructed for Rev. Mr. Ryder, of the 
First Universalist Church, Chicago. It Avas occupied 
by him on one occasion. Subsequently it was occujjied 
by other ministers. 

A chapel was also built, and services were held in it each 
Sabbath, and sometimes during^ the week. The camp 
was visited by Major Generals Thomas, Howard, Hooker 
and Butterfleld; all of whom expressed their admiration of 
the taste and skill exhibited in decorating the quarters. 

It would hardly be supposed that soldiers, who are 
usually considered very rough specimens of humanity, 
could exhibit such a fine appreciation of the beautiful, 
but that lovely camp, embowered among the arches 
seemed more like the abode of fau'ies than of " boys 
in blue." 



THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. 51 



CHAPTER Vl. 

The first Campaign. Distant Artillery firing — Miit- 
terings of the Coming Storm. On a Flank Movement. 
Snake Creek Gap. The Enemy in front. '''•Among 
the JPines.''"' Sharp Firing in front. The First Day 
at Resaca. Battle of Kesaca. 

With the beginning of May, the grand Atlanta Cam- 
paign commenced. 

It is said that some of the rebels afterwards declared, 
" Old Sherman ascended to the top of Lookout Moun- 
tain, gave the command, 'Attention! creation! by 
kingdom right wheel — march !' and 

The Yankees * came down like the wolf on the fold !' " 

The brigade moved on the morning of May 2d, at 
half-past 6 o'clock; passed around the point of Lookout 
Mountain, and through Rossville, over the Chickamauga 
battle-ground, camping a mile beyond, near Lee's and 
Gordon's Mills. Continued the march on the 4th, the 
102d acting as train guard. Camped a mile and a half 
from Ringgold at Pleasant Grove Church. Moved again 
on the 6th, and went into camp that night at Leed's 
Farm, near Nickajack Trace. 

The camp was aroused May Yth, at two o'clock in the 
morning, and the troops moved at five. Marched seven 
miles, to Taylor's Ridge— a precipitous range of hills, or 
mountains. Crossed the ridge, and camped in a dense 
body of timber near Yillanow. At that place we re- 
mained until the 11th. During the intermediate time 
there were frequent skirmishes between the two armies. 
Our own pickets had a brush with a number of the 
enemy on the 8th, and the same day a part of Geary's 
Division had a sharp fight, losing over two hundred men 
killed and wounded. There was heavy cannonading on 
the 9th, in the direction of Dalton. 



52 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTEY VOLS. 

Moved again on the 11th of May, at a quarter past 
4 o'clock, A. M. Marched twelve miles and entered Snake 
Creek Gap, a narrow pass between lofty ranges of the 
Chattoogata Mountains. Pitched our tents in the valley 
and on the mountain side. It was a romantic locality. 

The lofty mountains towered on either hand hundreds 
of feet above us, their summits and slopes covered with 
a dense growth of timber. Thousands of troops were 
camped in the valley, and there Avas a steady tramp of 
columns marching to the front. 

The scene from an elevated position on the mountain 
side, the evening of the 11th, when night was settling 
over the earth, and the surrounding hills were dimly 
outlined in the gathering gloom, was strangely beautitiil. 
The white tents of the soldiers dotted the narrow valley, 
and their fires gleamed through the foliage of intervening 
trees. Dusky forms flitted to and fro about the camp 
fires, and a hum of voices came to the ear, in a monoto- 
nous sound that grew less audible as the night advanced. 
Above the hum of voices could be heard the constant 
rumbling of the wagon trains moving towards the front. 
At length the clear notes of a bugle sounded tattoo, then 
others took up the strain and were quickly followed by 
the crashing roll of the drums. 

But our feelings at that time were not all of a sublime 
character. The stern realities of an active campaign 
subjected us to privations that we had never endured 
before. Transportation was limited, and many of the 
soldiers had nothing in the world with them save one 
suit of clothes, a rubber blanket and a shelter tent — 
vulgarly termed a "purp" tent. On their rubber blanket 
beneath the shelter tent, they slept without removing 
their clothes, day after day and week after week. 

Privations which at one time would have caused them 
to murmur, were looked upon as mere trifles, and a spirit 
of cheerfulness and hopefulness pervaded all minds. 

While encamped there, a number of the soldiers 
ascended the mountain on the left of the gap. With 
Adjutant J. H. Snyder, the writer climbed one of the 
highest peaks of this mountain, and looked down into the 
valley of the Oostanaula River. We observed occasional 



SNAKE CREEK GAP. 53 

" clearings " in the valley, and connected with these 
were dwelling houses, which appeared in the distance 
like small, white tents. Everything was represented in 
miniature. 

The use of a field glass enabled us to obtain a very 
distinct view of the range of mountains beyond the val- 
ley, and other mountains far away southward and west- 
ward — the lofty ranges rising hill above liill in beautiful 
succession, and at various points culminating in solitary 
peaks. 

Some miles away eastward a rebel wagon train was 
seen, in park. We felt as we looked over the broad 
valley that we were viewing the land of the enemy — soon, 
however, to be our own. 

Our Brigade was detained during part of the 11th 
and 12th of May in the gap, to cut out and prepare a 
new road through the woods. During the afternoon of the 
12th we marched five miles and camped near the mouth 
of the Gap. 

There had been some fighting in the direction of Dal- 
ton, and at intervals the low and sullen " boom " of 
distant cannon was heard, almost due north of us. 

The 20th Corps had successfully accomplished the 
flank movement through Snake Creek Gap, and was 
now well established in a strong position, threatening the 
left flank of the enemy. 

Friday morning. May 13th, we moA^ed in a direction 
to the right of Resaca, around which place the rebels 
had entrenched themselves, and were ready to give us 
battle. The cavalry which had been thrown out in ad- 
vance, became engaged with the enemy's videttes at an 
early hour, and we soon learned that Gen. Kilpatrick 
had been Avounded and borne to the rear. The rebels 
Avere stubborn. In the afternoon the infantry Avas pushed 
forward to " feel " the enemy, and develope his position 
and streno;th. 

We advanced through groves of young pines — the 
most dense we had yet seen. 

Among the pines, in line of battle ! IIoav indeliby the 
scene is fixed in memory. What soldier of Sherman's 



54 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. IXFANTRY VOLS. 

army can view, even at tliis day, a grove of young pines 
without having those days of carnage and death recalled 
to mind ? 

Slowly the enemy's skirmish line was pressed back by 
om- skirmishers, and late in the afternoon the skirmishers 
in front of the 15th Corps approached, and finally 
charged and captured a redoubt with two guns. 

Our Division had been separated from the other divis- 
ions of the Corps, and was formed on the right of the 
14th Corps. The advance was continued at intervals 
until dusk. Halting in an open field at the base of a 
range of hills we rested awhile, and ate a hastily pre- 
pared supper. After dark, moved on by a circuitous 
route, quietly and carefully, into line of battle, on the 
opposite side of the hill. The position of the enemy had 
now been fully developed. Only a narrow valley sepa- 
rated their line from ours. They had been hard pressed 
during the day, and perceived the necessity of construct- 
ing strong defensive works. As we formed in line, the 
busy click, click, click of their axes could be distinctly 
heard, and they seemed to be working for dear life. We 
occupied a ravine wdiich ran parallel with the hill, about 
one hundred and fifty feet above its base. Companies 
E and G were sent out as skirmishers during the night. 
Capt. McManus had command of the line, and was as- 
sisted by Capt. Sedwick. Both most excellent men — 
the former, daring almost to a fault, the latter, perfectly 
cool and collected in any position of danger. It is 
related of Capt. S. that on that occasion it became nec- 
essary at one time for him to pass from post to post in a 
very exposed position, in plain view of the enemy, and 
as their balls raised the dust about his feet, the only per- 
ceptible change in his manner consisted in the more 
rapid puffing of the smoke from his pipe. 

Early in the morning a dash forward to Camp Creek 
was made. Beinsj then mere novices in the art of war- 
fare, many of the men took up positions where they were 
quite at the mercy of the enemy, and were com})elled to 
remain behind stumps and trees all day — an attempt to 
escape being equivalent to certain death. It was an 
exciting day on the skirmish line ; firing commenced at 
daylight, and was kept up until dark. 



FIRST DAY AT EESACA. 55 

At one time the enemy endeavored to flank the line, 
and Capt. Sedwick discovering the movement from his 
position in front, recrossed the field to his reserve, and 
with them advanced on the left and drove the enemy 
back. Meanwhile there was heavier work on the left. 
The skirmishing had been lively in that direction all the 
forenoon, but at 2 o'clock p. m. the firing became 
terriiic. There was a perpetual roll of musketry, and 
the deep bass of the artillery reverberated grandly 
through the woods, and was echoed back by the sur- 
rounding hills. 

At that time we Avere ordered forward, and the mo- 
ment we appeared on the little elevation in front of the 
ravine, the rebel sharpshooters sent their balls whistling 
around us, killing one man instantly and wounding three. 
Having \:.roceeded a short distance, we were ordered to 
halt and lie down. 

The object doubtless was to make a feint of attacking, 
in order to divert the attention of the enemy from the 
left. 

No further advance was attempted, and we remained 
in that position until late in the evening, listening occas- 
ionally to the whizzing of bullets above our heads, but 
m^ore deeply interested in the fierce conflict on our left. 
The sound at times would run along the line towards us, 
until it would seem that our Corps must soon, also, be- 
come engaged, then it would recede, and there would be 
a lull, like the lulling of the winds in a winter storm. 

Sometimes it would seem that our men were driving 
the rebels, and again it appeared that the battle was 
going against us. O ! how terrible the suspense of 
w^aiting at such a time for victory, while contemplating 
the possibility of disaster ! 

The sound of the battle at its height could only be 
campared in my mind to the work of a storm, breaking 
and crushing to the ground, ten thousand dead trees 
every instant, amid the roll of heaven's artillery. 

A battery about fifty yards to the left of our regiment 
was kept busy throwing shot and shell into the rebel 
lines, but the guns of the enemy were engaged where 
the contest raged more fiercely, and they paid no atten- 
tion to this battery. 



56 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

ToAvards evening the sounds of battle died away, and 
finally dwindled down to the irregular firing of the skir- 
mishers. At dusk w^e retired to our position in the 
ravine. The regiment had lost during the day three 
men killed, and nineteen wounded. 

Late at night the camp was hushed in repose, and 
beneath the lovely foliage of the trees we slept sweetly — 
but ere we slept, we looked uj) through our leafy cover- 
ing to the bright stars that twinkled so peacefully in the 
calm blue sky, and thought of other and distant skies of 
peace — of those far away, as dear to us as life — and 
thought of the morroio. 

At 2 o'clock next morning w^e were aroused, and 
ordered to resume the advance position that had been 
abandoned the evening before. During the time inter- 
vening before day light, slight breast-works w^ere thrown 
\\Y> — the first we ever built. 

The morning of Sunday, May 15, 1864, dawned luridly 
upon us. The smoke of innumerable camp fires had 
enveloped hill and valley in a hazy mantle. 

At six o'clock we were ordered to move around to the 
left of the 14th Army Corps. 

Quietly we marched back over the hill, and through 
the shadowy forest, almost feeling the death-like still- 
ness of that memorable Sabbath morning. And how 
like entering the valley of the shadow of death, seemed 
our march down through the smoky atmosphere into the 
deep valley, and around to our new position confronting 
the enemy. 

Our Division had been selected for the desperate w^ork 
of charging a rebel battery, Avhich was supported by a 
strong force of the enemy behind entrenchments. The 
ulterior object was to break the enemy's line at that 
point, and thereby cut the rebel army in twain. 

The 1st Brigade was ordered to make the assault, 
Avhile the other brigades of the division were to be held 
in easy supporting distance. The brigade was formed 
in column by regiments, right in front, as follows : YOth 
Indiana, 102d Illinois, VOth Ohio, 129th Illinois, 105th 
Illinois. The men liad previously unslung knapsacks and 
left them in charge of a guard. 



BATTLE OF RESACA. 57 

There was evidently some warm work to be done. 
At first the real design of the movement was known only 
to a few, but when the column was formed, the men 
were ordered to fix bayonets, and as the ominous click 
ran along the line the nature of the task before us 
became apparent. Thought was busy then, and all faces 
seemed a shade paler. 

The distance from the point where the charging col- 
umn was formed to the enemy's line, was about six 
hundred yards. A valley lay between, and their works 
were upon the crest of a hill beyond. A heavy growth 
of young pines covered all the hills and completely 
masked their position. 

At length about half-past eleven o'clock the command 
" forward " ran along the line, and the column quickly 
moved down the hillside. Simultaneously with the 
beginning of the movement the rebels opened fire. 
Then " forward !" was the word shouted and repeated 
by almost every tongue. And a wild, prolonged battle 
yell that swelled from all lips, arose distinct and terrific 
above the roar of battle, as down into the valley and 
across the open field — where death rode on every pass- 
ing breeze — then up the hillside where the twigs and 
branches of the young pines w^ere clipped by the bullets 
like corn blades in a hail storm — the charging columns 
moved — not in regular lines, but enmasse, disorganized 
by the inequalities of the ground and the dense growth 
of pines — on to the summit, towards the rebel cannons 
which belched forth fire, grape-shot and shell to the last 
instant — men droj^ping dead and wounded on every 
hand — into the earthworks surrounding the guns, and 
the guns were ours. 

All of the regiments in the brigade were repre- 
sented within the earthwork. But the position was 
occupied only for an instant. The rebel line had been 
pierced — not broken. On the right and on the left of 
the redoubt, Avhich formed a salient in their position, their 
line was intact. They opened a withering cross fire 
and our men fell back to a position immediately in front 
of the redoubt, commanding the guns. 



58 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTEY VOLS. 

At that time some one- yelled out that the order was 
to retreat, and many retired to the foot of the hill. 
They were there re-organized and marched to another 
part of the field. Most of those who remained had heard 
no order to retu'e, and were sanguine that the position 
could be held. Protected in a measure by the rebel 
redoubt, and sheltered somewhat by trees and logs, our 
men kept up a steady fire all the afternoon. But the 
rebel fire was more active. They were protected by an 
excellent line of works — fired low — and their balls cut 
close around, occasionally killing or wounding a man. 

In the squad which held the position, several regiments 
were represented. If any fresh columtis moved up the 
hill they did not reach the vicinity of the guns. To- 
wards evening it was feared the battery would be 
retaken. One by one the men began to retire, notwith- 
standing the expostulations of those A^dlo remained. 
After dark the enemy ojjened a sharp fire, as if menacing 
a charge to retake the guns. A volley was fired in 
return ; the boys yelled out a defiant cheer, and one • 
shouted to the Johnnies : " Come over and take your 
brass field pieces !" 

Help had been sent for, and at length we heard music 
in the valley below. Sweet as the music of heaven, 
soothing the soul after the harrowing, discordant day of 
battle. 

Inwoven with our very beings, the ecstatic sensations 
of that moment, when the soft, plaintive, but cheering 
notes of a field band were borne to our ears, will live 
in memory forever. 

We learned afterwards, however, that the music did 
not herald the approach of a relieving column — but re- 
lief soon came. About ten o'clock in the evening a 
strong force marched into position immediately in front 
of the earthwork. The guns — four in number — were 
held and brought off that night. They were handsome 
pieces — brass, twelve pounders. One of them was 
named "Minnie, the Belle of Alabama." 

When the relieving column came, those of the regi- 
ment who had remained on the field marched to the 
rear. 



BATTLE OF KESACA. 59 

The day's work was over, and we were satisfied with 
the record the 102d had made. 

In the charge, the Regiment was gallantly led by Col. 
F. C. Smith, who went into the- fort among the first of 
those who braved tli<3 storm of leaden hail that swept 
our ranks away at that point. 

In retiring, and proceeding to another part of the field, 
that portion of the regiment which left, after having 
charged into the rebel redoubt, was actuated by the 
belief that the assault was a failure, and also acted in 
conformity to orders. 

Conspicuous among the officers who remained, waa 
Capt. Hiram Elliott, of Co. H, who lost one of two sons 
that Avent into the battle with him. 

Lieut. Col. J. M. Mannon, who had exhibited much dar- 
ing in the first onset, remained on tlie ground until after 
nightfall. 

Capt. Dan W. Sedwick was also there ; cool, collected 
and busy, as usual. 

Adjutant J. H. Snyder and Lieut. A. II. Trego — com- 
panions always — remained together at the post of danger. 
The latter commanded company C, in the fight. 

Among the com]'>any commanders who fought with 
gallantry, Capt. McManus, Capt. Wilson, Capt. Andrews 
and Lieut. D. W. Sheahan were conspicuous. Others 
whom I have not named behaved gallantly on the occa- 
sion. 

But of all those whom I have mentioned above, none 
were braver or more worthy of mention than scores of 
privates who fought with courage that has never been 
surpassed. Without injustice to any, I wish it were pos- 
sible to record the names of all who made a glorious 
record on that day. 

A very few members of the regiment behaved badly. 
Two or three committed the unaccountable mistake of 
charging the wrong hill — a hill in the rear. 

Near the commencement of the charge, our flag bearer 
Sergt. R. L. Carver was severely wounded. The banner 
bearer Corpl. P. F. Dillon was shot through the breast 
an instant later. When he fell, Adjutant J. H. Snyder 
gallantly caught up the banner and carried it into the 



60 HISTORY OF THE 102d ill. infantry vols. 

redoubt. Subsequently it was planted by him on the 
parapet of the earthwork. During the action fifty balls 
cut the banner, and two shattered the staff. 

According to the official report, the casualties in the 
102d during that day were eighteen killed, seventy-six 
wounded, and one missing. 

Our brigade commander, Brig. Gen. W. T. Ward, 
was quite severely wounded. It is said that when the 
ball struck the old General he invoked a " string of 
blessings " on the rebels in a style that was more forci- 
ble than ele2:ant. He was in the thickest of the tiorht 
cheering on the men when struck. Several of our men 
were doubtless struck by balls from the lines that were 
directed to support us. At one time the 2d Brigade 
opened a sharp fire on us, mistaking us for rebels. 

An amusing anecdote is related of a recruit who 
moved forward Avith the column but took the earliest 
o^^portunity to get behind a stump. He was repri- 
manded by an officer and ordered forward, but protested 
in this style : " I don't want to charge on that battery. 
I will be sure to get shot — if Gen. Hooker wants more 
cannon let him say so, and I will throio in and help buy 
them for hiniy 

Deponent did not say what regiment the recruit 
belonged to, but of one thing we may rest assured, he 
was a genuine Yankee, and had very peculiar financial 
" notions " of war. 

During the night of the 15tli the rebels evacuated tlieir 
entire line of works and retreated in the direction of 
Atlanta. 

The scene on the battle-ground the following day was 
sad beyond description. Tlie day was calm — indeed the 
stillness was oppressive. We were permitted to wander 
over the field and view the effects of the fierce struggle. 
The dead of both armies were being buried — some 
singly where they fell, others in a common grave. 

In a deep trench surrounded by evergreen pines, fifty- 
one of the slain of the 1st Brigade were buried. The 
scene at the grave was deeply impressive. An immense 
crowd of soldiers gathered around to hear the remarks 
of an aged chaplain, ere the forms of their comrades 
were forever hidden from sio-ht. 



AFTEK THE BATTLE. 61 

" Many in one," said the venerable minister, " is the 
motto borne proudly on our nation's banner. Many in 
one grave, our faUen brothers rest. And is not the coin- 
cidence a fitting one ? Will not tliis common grave be 
cherished with a sacred pride by all who love our coun- 
try's flag ?" 

At the conclusion of his remarks the work of burial 
was accomplished, tenderly and carefully as the circum- 
stances would permit, by the comrades of the slain. 

But to the living, sad as the surroundings were, the 
day after the battle seemed like the beginning of a new 
life. Peace and repose, how sweet, after the withering 
tornado of human wrath had swept by ! 

The day after the battle. Major Gen. Butterfield, our 
Division Commander, issued the following congratula- 
tory order : 

Head-Quarters 3d Div. 20th Army Corps, ) 
Near Resaca, Ga., May 16th, 1864. f 
General Orders Ko. 4. 

The Major General Commanding feels it a duty, as well as a pleas- 
ure, to congratulate the Division upon its achievements yesterday. 
The gallant assault and charge of the First Brigade, capturing four 
guns in the enemy's fort ; the brave support of the assault by a 
portion of the Second Brigade on the left, with the glorious repulse 
it gave tv.'ice its force, proves the Division worthy a high name and 
fame. Let every one endeavor by attention to duty, obedience to 
orders, devotion and courage, to make our record in the future as 
in the past, such that the army and the country will ever be proud 

of us. 

By command of Major General Butterfield. 

John Speed, Capt. and A. A. G. 

Gen. Sherman in his report of the operations of his 
army, referring to the eventful days at liesaca, says : 

" Nothing saved Johnston's army at liesaca, but the 
impracticable nature of the country, which made the 
passage of troops across the valley, almost impossible. 
This fact enabled his army to reach Resaca from Dalton, 
along the comparatively good roads constructed before 
hand, partly from the topographical nature of the coun- 
try and partly from the foresight of the rebel chief. At 

5 



62 IIISTOKY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTKY VOLS. 

all events, on tlic 14th of JMay, we found the rebel army 
in a strong position, behind Camp Creek, occupying the 
forts at Kesaca, and his right on some high chestnut 
hills to the north of the town. I at once ordered a pon- 
toon bridge to be laid across the Oostanaula at Lay's 
Ferry, in the direction of Calhoun, a division of the 16th 
Corps, commanded by Gen. Sweeney to cross and 
threaten Calhoun ; also, the cavalry division of General 
Garrard to move from its position at Villanow, down 
towards Rome, to cross the Oostanaula and break the 
railroad below Calhoun and above Kingston if possible, 
and with the main army I pressed against Resaca at all 
points. Gen. McPherson got across Camp Creek near 
its mouth, and made a lodgment close up to the enemy's 
works, on hills that commanded with short range artil- 
lery, the railroad and trestle bridges, and Gen. Thomas 
pressing close along Camp Creek Valley, threw Gen. 
Hooker's Corps across the head of the Creek, to the 
main Dalton road and down to it close on Resaca. 

" Gen. Schoheld came up on his left and a heavy bat- 
tle ensued during the afternoon and evening of the 15th, 
during which Gen. Hooker drove the enemy from several 
strong hills, captured a four-gun battery and many pris- 
oners. That night Johnston escaped, retreating south 
across the Oostanaula." 

INCIDENTS, ETC. 

Many hair-breadth escapes occurred at Resaca. One 
of the men w^as struck by a partially spent ball, Avhich 
passed through the outside of his coat into his pocket, 
and there buried itself in a plug of tobacco ! The to- 
bacco saved him from a dangerous, and perhaps fatal 
wound. 

The morning after the battle, numerous ball holes 
were visible in the clothing of the men. Hats, caps, 
coats and pants had been pierced. Many had been 
slightly scarred, and in some cases their wounds were 
never officially reported. One familiar ball cut through 
the clothing of Capt. Isaac McManus, barely drawing 
blood from his right leg. Capt. Wilson was prostrated 
and severely bruised, apparently by the concussion of 
an exploding shell. 



A REBEL VIEW OF THE SITUAIIOX. 63 

Having given a somewhat detailed history of tlie ope- 
rations of our army, it may not be improper to conchide 
the account of the battle, with a rebel view of the situa- 
tion at that time. It appears that after the last day's 
fighting was over, the Captain of the rebel battery which 
fell mto our hands, wrote the following letter, which was 
subsequently captured by a member of the 105th Illinois 
Regiment. It is given verbatim et literatim. 

Resaca Ga may 15. 
My Dear Wife 

John Thompson is going home to Cass- 
ville wounded I thought 1 would drop you a line by him 
The Yankees charged on my battery this P M and cap- 
tured 2 sections of it many of our men and attendants 
were wounded 

It was as daring an exploit as when my brothers was 
charged at antietam Va by a newyork Reg 

They threw themselves into the front as unconscious 
of danger as ducks into a pond 

I tell you and Avill to stow away everthing of value 
fearing we shall have to fall back from here if we do the 
yankees will get every thing in reach. 
We had to fight hookers command here or else the bat- 
tery never w^ould have been taken 

I hear we are gaining on the yankees in Va and we would 
have whipped them here if it had not been for Hookers 
command 

They all wore a star 
If we hold our ground here I will see you ere long I 
want you to send sis and James to grand Pas and you 
go to uncle Johns Take all the things you can 
I must close as the train will leave immediately your hus- 
band Unto Death 

PS w w c 

our position here w^as very good but we have to 
fall back keep up good courage I hope what I have 
said will not prove discouraging to you w w c 

From the allusion, in the fourtli paragraph, to the men 
of our Brigade, throwing themselves into the front, " as 
unconscious of danger as ducks into a pond," the term 
" Ward's Ducks " oriorinated. 

C3 



64 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. IXFANTKY VOLS. 



CHAPTER VII. 

The Campaign resumed. ' Cassville. A sliort Rest. 
The March to the Etoimah. Burnt Hichory or New 
Hope Church. Battles and Marches., from Neio Hope 
Church to the C hattahoochie liiver. 

Late in the afternoon of the 16ih of May, we marched 
from the vicinity of Resaca. The bulk of the army had 
already pressed forward after the enemy. We crossed 
the Conasauga River after dark, and marched rapidly 
until a late hour — passing through a region that had 
been devastated by both armies. It will be recollected 
that the woods were in many places on fire. Occasion- 
ally a dead pine tree burned magnificently, the flames 
creeping upwards from the base like a living serpent, and 
shooting out fiery tongues, from the topmost branches, 
over a hundred feet from the ground. 

We halted at midnight near an old mill on Coosawatee 
River. 

The march was resumed at an early hour on the 18tli. 
In the afternoon, when a few miles from Cassville, the 
regiment was halted and the men were ordered to load 
their guns. There was some skirmishing in front. The 
rebels evidently desired to go into camp and were be- 
coming stubborn. We had made a good day's march, 
and pressed them closely. In such cases it was often a 
source of gratification to our weary soldiers to hear 
skirmishing in advance, which usually indicated the close 
of the day's march. 

On the occasion referred to, our Brigade made but lit- 
tle progress after the first halt. Late in the afternoon, 
the rebels brought their aitillery into play to check our 
skirmishers. Our Brigade went into bivouac in column 
by regiments, about three miles from Cassville. Moved 
next morning. May 19th, at half-past five o'clock. After 



SKIKMISHING AND MANEUVERING. 65 

proceeding a short distance, the brigade was formed in 
order of battle. In front of our regiment, Companies G 
and B were deployed as skirmishers, and then we ad- 
vanced "by the right of companies to the front," antici- 
pating an immediate encounter with the enemy. We 
halted at length in a small grove of timber. There was 
an open field in front, and across this about a half mile 
distant, the rebel skirmish line could be seen. Farther 
to the left in the edge of a wood, rebel horsemen rode to 
and fro, observing our movements. 

While halted in the woods, the enemy opened upon 
us with artillery. A small field piece, that made a hol- 
low, sepulchral sound, devoted its attention to our part 
of the line. It was fired Avith considerable accuracy, 
and as the shells came, " flutter, flutter, flutter-ing " to- 
wards us like prairie chickens on the wing, our sensations 
were not of the most agreeable character. It is extreme- 
ly unpleasant to be subjected, in an exposed position, to 
the artillery fire of an enemy, when there is no reply 
from our own guns. 

A fragment from one of the shells, wounded a member 
of Co. 6 so severely that he died during the day. No 
other casualties occurred. 

At length we very quietly moved out of the woods, 
around to a new position, about two and a half miles to 
the right. Then, working as if for life, we made a bar- 
ricade of rails. A battery near us on the right, shelled 
the woods in front for some time, and at two o'clock p. m. 
a forward movement was ordered. 

At first we were fearful that our brigade was being 
pushed forward into a perilous position without support. 
But as we debouched from the woods, into an open field 
that extended a mile or two to the right and left, an un- 
expected but cheering sight met our eyes. In each di- 
rection, as far as the eye could reach, there were moving 
columns of troops ; all with flags and banners unfurled — 
advancing with as much regularity as if on drill. It was 
a magnificent military pageant — a realization of the pride 
and pomp of " glorious " war. 



66 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL, INFANTRY VOLS. 

N'ear tlie center of the open field, a halt was ordered. 
The enemy could be distinctly seen maneuvering in mass, 
in the edge of the woods, a few hundred yards in front. 
The 129th 111. Regiment was deployed as skirmishers in 
front of our Brigade. A battery was brought up, and 
the moment it commenced playing upon the rebels, they 
disappeared in the thick woods. 

With characteristic coolness Gen. Hooker rode for- 
ward with the skirmishers, to see what was there. He 
was accompanied by a single orderly. While awaiting 
further developments, two " Johnnies " came into view, 
advancing among the brush in front. Doubtless it Avas 
imagined by some that these men were among the ad- 
vance of a charging column; for a number of guns were 
instantly leveled at them, but they threw up their hands 
■with frantic energy, and then it was apparent that they 
were voluntarily coming into our lines. 

After a time we waded a small creek, moved to the 
right, advanced through thick woods in line of battle ; 
then moved off again to the right and rear — meantime 
there was heavy skirmishing in front, and some artillery 
firing. The days work ended with a return to the open 
field above referred to, where we went into camp for the 
night. 

It had been an exciting day of skirmishing and ma- 
neuverino:. The movements of the two armies were not 
unlike the movements of a thunder cloud in a dry season 
— angry, threatening, portentous — flying messengers 
moving hither and thither — yet without other result than 
a few big drops of rain, and much thunder. 

Referring to the operations of our Division on the 
18th and 19th of May, Gen. Butterfield, in a complimen- 
tary order says: "On the 18th the Division marched 
twenty miles — much of it in the heat of the sun ; partial- 
ly making its own roads ; moving five miles in line of 
battle, and driving the enemy before them. On the 19th 
the Division again moved to the enemy's extreme right. 
The advance of the First Brigade unsupported, driving 
the enemy to within one and a half miles of Cassville, by 
the Adairsville road ; the reconnoissance of the 3d Brig- 
ade to the railroad between Kingston and Cassville, un- 
supported, and in the presence of five times its number 



DESIGNS OF THE EEBEL GENERAL. 67 

of the enemy, the defiant attitude of tlie Division, alone 
and unsupported, when threatened by thrice its number ; 
the assault and capture of Cassville, by the 2d Brigade ; 
the daring and boldness of the artillery, especially the 
section of Battery C, 1st Ohio, Lieut. King commanding ; 
their line practice at the enemy's retreating columns, and 
the conduct and bearing of the whole Division through- 
out the two days, especially while in the presence of the 
main army of the enemy, are worthy of the highest com- 
mendation. Resaca and Cassville are proiid names for 
our banners." 

It may interest the reader to know what were the de- 
signs of the rebel general at that time. I quote from 
the official report of General Joseph E. Johnson, com- 
mencing with the account of his plan of conducting the 
defensive campaign. He says : 

" The fact that a part of Polk's troops were still in the 
rear, and the great numerical superiority of the Federal 
Army made it expedient to risk battle only when posi- 
tion or some blunder of the enemy might give us 
counterbalancino; advantaj^es. I therefore determined 
to fall back slowly until circumstances should put the 
chances of battle in our favor, keeping so near the United 
States Army as to j^revent its sending reinforcements to 
Grant; and hoping, by taking advantage of positions and 
opportunities, to reduce the odds against us, by partial 
engagements. I also expected it to be materially re- 
duced before the end of June, by the expiration of the 
terms of service of many of the regiments which had 
not re-enlisted. In this way we fell back to Cassville in 
two maiches. At Adairsville, about mid-day, on the 
I'Zth, Polk's cavalry, under Brigadier-General Jackson, 
met the enemy, and Hardee, after severe skirmishing, 
checked them. At this point, on the IStli, Polk's and 
Hood's corps took the direct road to Cassville ; Hardee's 
that by Kingston. About half the Federal Army took 
each road. 

" French's division having joined Polk's corps on the 
18th, on the morning of the 19th, when half the Federal 
Army was near Kingston, the two corps at Cassville 
were ordered to advance against the troops that had fol- 
lowed them from Adairsville, Hood leading on the right. 



08 IIISTOEY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

When tills corps had advanced some two miles, one of 
his staff officers reported to Lieutenant-General Hood, 
that the enemy were approachino- on the Canton road, in 
rear of the riglit of our original i)osition. He drew hack 
his troops and formed them across that road. When it 
was discovered that the officer was mistaken, the oppor- 
tunity had })assed, by the near aj)proach of the Federal 
Army. Expecting to be attacked, I drew up the troops 
in what seemed to nic an excellent position — a bold ridge 
immediately in rear of Cassville, with the open valley 
before it. The tire of the enemy's artillery commenced 
soon after the troops were formed, and continued imtil 
night. 

" Soon after dark, Lieutenant-GeneralsPolk and Hood, 
together, expressed to me decidedly, the opinion formed 
u]ion the observation of the afternoon, that the Union 
artillery Avould render their positions untenable the next 
day, and lu-ged me to abandon the ground immediately 
and cross the Etowah. Lieutenant-General Hardee, 
whose position I thought weakest, was conlident that he 
could hold it. The other two officers, however, were so 
earnest and unwilling to depend on the ability of their 
corps to defend the ground, that 1 yielded, and the Army 
crossed the Etowah on the 20th, a step which I have re- 
gretted ever since." 

During the 20th, 21st and 22d of May, the troops were 
permitted to rest in the vicinity of Cassville. 

On the 23d we moved on towards the Etowah river. 
Crossed the river durinjx the afternoon — sliii-ht skirmish- 
ing in front and cannonading off to the left. Camped a 
mile south of the stream. There is some beautiful 
country in the vicinity of the Etowah and many elegant 
residences. 

The farmers had been busily at work during the spring. 
Fine crops were groAving but were annihilated as fast as 
the army moved. The wheat was used for forage, and 
the corn was trodden down by the invading army. 
Fences were used for fuel. 

The citizens had almost universally forsaken their 
homes. INEany of them on our approach, had joined the 
rebel army. The ladies, wl\o in some cases remained a t 



BATTLE OF NEW HOPE CHURCH. 69 

home, and braved the Yankee mvaders, were very indig- 
nant because the Yankees did not, in their opinion, fight 
in a fair way. Said they: " You'ns don't fight we'ns 
fair ; as soon as our boys choose a position and get ready 
to meet you, Captain Hooker, with his lUgiment^ makes 
a flank movement and comes round on their eends, and 
then they must retreat again." 

It is said that some of the unsophisticated creatures 
actually believed the instruments of the brass bands 
were parts of a huge machine which General Sherman 
carried along for flanking purposes ! 

During the 24th, and until the afternoon of the 25tH, 
we advanced in the direction of Dallas. We were in a 
rough mountainous region, south of Pumpkin Vine Creek, 
when, about 3 o'clock p.m.. May 25th, the 2d Division of 
our corps found the enemy in force near a place called 
"Burnt Hickory," — more commonly known as New Hope 
Church. A battle soon commenced. The roll of mus- 
ketry was incessant and teriftic. The 3d Division im- 
mediately moved to take up a position on the right of 
the 2d, and with it General Butterfield was ordered to 
make a " vigorous attack " on the enemy's left. 

Some difiiculty was experienced in getting into posi- 
tion. The brigades were not in proper communication 
with each other, and owing to a multiplicity of orders, 
the Regiments of our Brigade became in a measure 
separated. Night was coming on apace. The conflict 
raged fiercely on the left, and the enemy in our front 
were making the air musical with cannon shot, shells, 
grapeshot and musket balls. 

Some who were there will recollect how our line, with 
one involuntary movement, was swayed for an instant 
towards the earth — like a field of wheat in a storm — as 
the screeching shells swept over head. 

Finally an irregular advance was made. The VOth 
Indiana and the 102d Illinois regiments were at first or- 
dered to remain in reserve. In a short time General 
Butterfield rode along, evidently somewhat excited, and 
ordered our Colonel to advance at once with his regi- 
ment and make a " vigorous attack." We moved for- 
ward, over four lines of our troops, who were prone upon 



70 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

the ground, but were halted to await the TOth Indiana. 
Again we moved forward. It was growing dark ; a 
drizzling rain set in. The rehel guns flashed lire not 
more than two hundred yards ahead, and the grape shot 
rattled around. 

At that point we were ordered to halt and lie down. 
No further advance was attempted. The rebels gave a 
prolonged cheer of victory, and we felt that we had 
been slightly worsted. 

The rain increased as darkness set in, and the night 
was most dismal. In the thick woods — the darkness 
rendered more impenetrable by the smoke of battle 
which hung around the earth — regiments and parts of 
regiments were moved to and fro in the vain endeavor 
to reorganize the columns. Pitilessly the rain came 
down, saturating our clothes through and through. Sup- 
perless, at length we went to bed, with our blankets 
only for a covering. 

During the night Cos. A and F were detailed to build 
breastworks on a line which had been established for the 
purpose. 

Before daylight the other companies of the regiment 
moved to this line and commenced building works. A 
heavy fog enveloped the earth when morning came, but 
the fog did not prevent the rebels from annoying those 
at work on the fortifications. They opened a galling 
fire, and Captain D. W. Sedwick was ordered to deploy 
Co. E and protect the working parties. 

The Captain was the man for the occasion, and he did 
his work well. He had received orders to advance his 
men 150 yards in front of our line, but had not pro- 
ceeded more tlian half that distance when he perceived 
through the fog that he was but two or three rods from 
the enemy's works. The enemy succeeded in wounding 
several of his men before he could withdraw them to a 
proper distance. Finally they were posted behind 
trees and logs, and they "let fly" with their Spencers in 
such an eflective manner, that the rebels were compelled 
to retire, temporarily abandoning two field ])ieces which 
they had placed in an advanced position. The artillery 
horses were killed. Co. E had seven men wounded that 
morning. 



A REBEL BATTERY SILENCED. 71 

Early in the morning a number of guns were placed 
in position along our line, and for two or three hours 
they threw shot and shell into the rebel lines with 
scarcely a moment's interruption. The rebel sharp- 
shooters endeavored to silence them, but the Spencer 
rifles were too much for the Johnnies. During the fore- 
noon, Generals Sherman and Hooker came along the 
line, quite reckless of the rebel bullets, which semi-occa- 
sionally whistled through the air. 

The rebel field pieces were held in tow during all that 
day, and until the evening of the day following by dif- 
ferent " reliefs " from the Regiment. It was a warm 
place, and there was some of the sharj^est of sharpshoot- 
ing done on both sides. At one time a column of rebels 
was seen moving towards our right, in point blank range, 
and the skirmishers quickly emptied the magazines of 
their Spencer guns, as they poured volley after volley 
i'lto the moving column of gray. 

The regiment lost, while in that position, one man 
killed and fourteen wounded. 

At three o'clock in the afternoon of the 27th, we were 
relieved by other troo23s, and at dusk marched to a new 
position a half mile to the right, in line with the other 
regiments of the brigade, and on the right of the 70th 
Ind. The opposing lines at that place were farther 
apart, yet the rebel sharp-shooters were able to pick ofi" 
our men who exposed themselves too recklessly. During 
the morning, heavy cannonading was heard in the direc- 
tion of Dallas — supposed to be the guns of McPherson. 

Before noon of the 28th, we were again ordered to a 
position in reserve, a short distace from the position first 
held on the line. One man had been wounded during 
the morning. While being relieved preparatory to mov- 
ing to the rear, the rebel skirmishers opened a rapid fire. 
They evidently observed the change that was being 
made. The regiment which relieved ours had one man 
hurt. Ours retired without further loss. 

A few moments after reaching our new position, sharp 
firing commenced in front. Although we were held in 
reserve, the rebels were so close that their balls dropped 
several hundred yards in the rear of us. Several rounds 



72 HISTOEY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

of grape shot were fired by them and tlie little iron crah- 
a2yples^ barked the trees and rattled around so thickly, it 
Avas marvelous that no one was hurt. 

In the afternoon we moved two hundred yards to the 
rear. Remained in that position until midnight of the 
29th. In the meantime, there was constant skirmishing 
on some part of the line and occasional heavy can- 
nonading. 

At midnight of the 29th, an attack was made on the 
left of our front. The firing was terrific. There is 
something fearfully grand, yet terrible, in a night attack. 
Perhaps a little extra picket firing has caused the soldier 
to rest uneasily in his sleep, and perchance he dreams of 
being on the eve of battle. Presently the skirmishing 
grows more lively, then follows a roll of musketry, and 
then a roar that bursts upon the still night air like the 
sound of a hurricane. Instantly the soldier is on his feet, 
instinctively grasping his faithful musket. Finally the 
big dogs of war commence barking, as if to quell the 
tumult, and thus night is rendered hideous for an hour 
or two, and sleep is driven from all eyes, not only at the 
point of attack, but miles away right and left along the 
line. 

Thus we were aroused at midnight of the 29th. 
Shortly afterwards we marched to a new position a half 
mile further to the right. Remained there until the 31st. 
We were then relieved by the 129th 111. and returned 
to the old position in reserve line. Next day, June 1st, 
the corps was relieved by the 15th Corps. We then 
marched to the left three miles, and went into camp. 
Moved at one o'clock p. m., June 2d, continuing towards 
the left. A little deluge of rain came down, a few 
moments after the march commenced. Col. Coburn's 
brigade was in advance and it met with strong opposi- 
tion. After proceeding two and a half miles, our brigade 
was formed in order of battle, and ordered to move 
forward in support of Coh Coburn. The enemy 
shelled us quite actively. Several of the regiments in 
our brigade were in an open field, and were much 
exposed to the enemy's fire. A number of casualties 
occurred in the '79th Ohio Regiment. Our Brigade 



RAIN AND REST. 73 

Surgeon, Dr. Potter, of the lOoth Illinois Regiment, was 
killed by a shell. He ^vas an excellent man and a good 
Surgeon. No casualties occurred that day in the 102d. 
Chilled and wet we bivouaced that night, without hav- 
ing more than a mouthful of supper. Rations were 
" ]3layed out." 

Friday, the 3d, — marched three miles northeast — 
camped in an open field ; cavalry on the left. Next day 
moved a short distance to breastworks that had been 
occupied by Col. Coburn's brigade. A number of bales 
of cotton in a building near camp, aiforded excellent 
bedding, and some of the men slept on soft beds that 
night. The weather continued rainy and disagreeable. 
Moved again on the 6th about five miles. Halted in the 
afternoon, formed in line of battle, and were ordered to 
build breastworks in double-quick time. 

There we remained until the 15th of June. Neither 
army seemed very belligerent, and we passed several 
days in perfect quiet. Rain fell almost every day. It 
will be remembered that the two wino-s of the reori- 
ment occupied separate camps at that time. The left 
wing was camped near a large rock that cropped out 
from the earth. The right wing occupied a part of the 
line an eighth of a mile farther to the left. The camp was 
ever after known in the regiment as the Wet Tortugas ! 

The temporary suspension of active military opera- 
tions was followed by a general movement on the 15th 
of the month. 

The advance commenced early in the afternoon. It 
did not require a long march to stir up the rebels. A 
mile and a half from our abandoned encampment they 
were found in force, at a place that is known as Golgotha 
Church — by some called Pine Mountain. 

There had been considerable artillery firing during the 
day, and as we advanced, the picket firing became more 
animated. 

Having approached sufficiently near the enemy to 
comprehend his position, the brigade was deployed in 
line of battle and the 102d was ordered to deploy as 
skirmishers in front of the brigade. We advanced 
quickly across an open field and into the edge of a wood 



14: HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTKY VOLS. 

where the enemy disputed our further progress. Com- 
panies G, I, E and part of F Avere deployed ; the other 
companies were held in reserve. For hours our men 
plied their Spencers from behind trees, and the enemy 
replied with equal energy. At length an advance Avas 
made and our skirmishers drove the enemy from their 
first line of skirmish pits. 

During the skirmish, Capt. Isaac McManus, of Co. G, 
was shot through the left arm, above the elboAV — the 
ball in its course breaking the bone. 

The Captain had CA^er exhibited a degree of bravery, 
that almost amounted to rashness, and his loss Avas 
severely felt durmg the remainder of the arduous cam- 
paign. 

Several others were wounded. Lieut. A. 11. Trego 
received a slight wound from a spent ball. It was a 
position of great danger, yet the skirmishers executed 
their task Avell. 

Farther to the right a severe fight took place, and the 
YOth Indiana, 79th Ohio and 129th Illinois regiments lost 
quite lieaA^ly. The 1 05th lost scA^eral men during the day. 

Late at night we were ordered to retire, but had not 
proceeded far before the order Avas countermanded. We 
returned to the abandoned rebel skirmish line, and con- 
structed strong Avorks, — the brigade being then formed 
on that line. The troops secured a short sleep before 
daylight. 

Soon after daylight, Colonel Smith went out to the 
skirmish line to make a personal reconnoissance of the 
enemy's position. While there he was singled out by a 
rebel sharpshooter, who must haA^e discovered his rank. 
The ball struck aboA^e the knee and passed through the 
limb, barely missing the bone. 

The Colonel came in leaning upon the arm of one of 
his men. The men gathered around and anxiously 
inquired how badly he was hurt. He Avas miAvilling to 
admit th^ serious nature of his Avound, and replied : " I 
am only scratched a little boys." It was difticult to con- 
vince him that it was necessary for him to be taken to 
the rear. 



AN EXHIBITION OF FIEE-WORKS. 15 

The loss of Colonel Smith at that juncture, was deeply 
felt by the regiment. The command then devolved upon 
Lieut. Col. J. M. Mannon. 

During the forenoon of the 16th, artilleiy was placed 
in position along our works. At one o'clock the guns 
opened upon the enemy, and kept up a lively cannonade 
until late in the afternoon. The rebel skirmishers 
continued actively at work, but their fire did not inter- 
rupt the serving of the guns. The woods between our 
works and theirs were so heavy that the eifect of our 
shot could not be ascertained. In one case, however, a 
ball was seen to strike a log that lay upon the top of 
their works. The rebels ran in confusion from the 
locality, and our sharpshooters took advantage of the 
occasion, to throw a volley of balls into their midst. 

All was quiet along the Ime at sunset. The men had 
generally finished their suppers, — some were at the small 
creek in the rear, washing ; numbers were ofi* some dis- 
tance from the breastworks — when, " whiz " came a rebel 
shell and exploded immediately in rear of the works — 
then another, and another, and then, — ban//, hcmg, hang, 
— three or four almost simultaneously, scattering fire and 
fragments all around. This lasted perhaps twenty min- 
utes. In the meantime we lay close up to the breast- 
works, thinking the exhibition of fireworks, rather inter- 
esting, but willing to have it end at any time. 

The rebel guns had been well aimed, yet, as far as we 
could learn, they did no damage whatever. 

A short time after the shelling ceased we were relieved 
by another regiment, and were ordered to fall back a 
hundred yards. 

The men could not see the justice of being relieved at 
that juncture from works they had built themselves. 

Fortunately the rebels did not renew the bombard- 
ment. Ere morning they evacuated their line, and fell 
back to a new jjosition three miles distant. 

After removing to the rear on the evening of the 16th, 
as above stated, a large mail was received, and dis- 
tributed. The moon shone brightly, and many of the 
soldiers read their letters by moonlight. 



76 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

Next morning we visited the vacated rebel works. 
They were very substantial. The first line was suffi- 
ciently strong to resist heavy artillery, and in front of it 
the enemy had driven stakes, leaving sharpened points 
for the Yankees to impale themselves upon in making a 
charge. A battery had been stationed where it could 
deliver a raking fire upon an approaching column. 
There were three lines of works. The place could not 
have been taken by direct assault without terrible loss. 
But the rebels were compelled by a flank movement to 
retire. 

At eleven o'clock, on the 17th, there was another gen- 
eral forward movement. The 20th and 23d corps, form- 
ing the right of a long line of battle, swung round and 
pressed closely upon the enemy, about five miles south- 
west of Kenesaw Mountain. The advance was made in 
excellent order. To cover our real strength and designs 
the 3d Division marched by a circuitous route througl 
thick timber. Through the thickest underbrush the troop; 
moved by the right of companies to the front, and thej 
by the left flank, debouching in an open field, where the; 
were massed under cover of a hill. While the move 
ment was being made there was heavy firing a short dii 
tance in advance. The cannon balls, cutting throng 
the air, kept up for some moments a constant screechin 
howl, and for a time we were uncertain whether the 
were fired by our men or by the enemy. Reaching th 
open field the position became intelligible. From tl^ 
summit of a hill in our front there Avas a fine view of tl / 
situation. Three-fourths of a mile in front the rebels h^t 
chosen a good position on a heavily wooded hill, beyoid 
a small creek. The valley through which the creek nn 
had been " cleared " and cultivated. On a bare fill 
overlooking this valley, a mile and a half to the right of 
us, one of Gen. Schofield's batteries had audaciouJy 
taken up an advanced position a few hundred yaids 
from the enemy. For some time the men worked he 
guns with savage energy. Firing by volley, a sheet of 
fire would burst forth from the battery, and then amcig 
the tree tops over the rebels, white pufis of smoke coild 
be seen where the shells exploded, and after this, in 



MAGNIFICENT BATTLE SCENE. 77 

quick succession, would come the roar of the discharge 
and the sounds of the exploding shells. Directly in our 
front one of our division batteries was actively served, 
and away to the left still others were at work. The 
guns of the enemy replied only at intervals. The skir- 
mishing was active all along the line, and at one time 
far away to the left there was a heavy roll of musketry. 

The cannonading on the evening of the I'Zth, and dur- 
ing the 18th, exceeded all previous exhibitions in that 
line — so far as our experience had extended. The pic- 
ture was a magnificent one. The artillerymen working 
grimly amid the smoke of their guns ; the hills and 
valleys envelo^^ed in a hazy battle cloud, and the great 
dead pine trees, lifting their ghostly arms heaveuAvard, 
made up a scene that reminded us of descriptions we 
had read of some of Napoleon's Prussian battle-fields. 

It rained all day the 18th, and we were very uncom- 
fortable in our little shelter-tents. But a ration of 
whisky was issued in the afternoon, and of course the 
situation was at once vastly improved. 

During the night of the 18th, the enemy fell back to a 
position around Kenesaw Mountain, covering Marietta ; 
and on the 19th our right wing made another swing to 
press back their left. 

We crossed the little creek previously referred to, and 
found it much SAVollen by the recent rain. The bridge 
which the pioneers had made, was swept away, and we 
were compelled to wade the stream. A mile beyond we 
were massed on the slope of a hill, and were told that 
we were about to " go for them " again. 

At length the brigade was deployed in line of battle — 
the 102d being on the extreme right of the corps was 
"refused," that is, formed at a right angle with the 
advancing line, to protect the right flank. Co. C was 
deployed as skirmishers. 

Marching as usual through dense pines, and under a 
A'ariety of conflicting orders, there was much confusion 
in the movement. First to the right, then to the left, 
then forward, then rearward the columns moved — receiv- 
ing a few shots from the enemy, which did no damage. 
Meantime on the left there was heavy firing without any 
marked result. 



^8 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

Finally a line of works was thrown up. The evening 
of the next day, another demonstration was made similar 
to the first. The men protested very strongly against 
such vexatious " battallion drills." 

Co. C remained on the skirmish line during the 20th. 
A large oak tree near the reserve post was used as an 
observatory and afibrded an excellent view of the ground 
in front. Gen. Hooker climbed into the top of the tree, 
and Major Gens. Thomas, Howard, Schofield, McCook 
and Butterfield, besides one or two Brigadiers, visited 
that part of the field during the day, to make observa- 
tions. Several of the leading Generals held a council of 
war in a log hut near by. 

After dark the regiment was moved forward a short 
distance and ordered to build a new line of works. The 
works were completed at midnight. Remained in that 
position during the 21st. Co. B was that day sent out 
on the skirmish line, and was deployed in front of the 
136th New York ReGfiment. The Colonel of that resfi- 
ment advanced then into a position which he seemed 
afraid to occupy himself, or with men of his own regi- 
ment. The enemy opened a sharp cross fire upon them, 
and they returned the fire as best they could from 
behind stumps, trees, and a rail fence. Some of them 
were so much exposed, that the slightest movement of 
their bodies brought a volley of bullets around them. In 
that position they lost one man killed, and one wounded. 

On the 22d of June the right wing of the army again 
advanced. There was more or less fighting all along the 
line. Gen. William's division of our corps was assaulted 
by the enemy in the afternoon. The men had com- 
menced building breastworks when the rebels advanced 
in heavy columns against them. A number of batteries 
had been placed in positron to sweep an open field 
through which they advanced. As they appeared in the 
open field they were subjected to a terrific fire of mus- 
ketry and artillery. Finally they were beaten back with 
terrible loss. 

Our division was on the left of the division engaged. 
The cannonading was very heavy. 



HOYERING ON THE VERGE OF BATTLE. 79 

In the meantime there had been m.uch activity on our 
part of the line. We seemed to hover all day on the 
verge of battle. 

The general advance was made just before noon. The 
brigade advanced in the following order: 102d Illmois 
and 79th Ohio, in the first line ; the 70th Indiana, lOStli 
and 129th Illinois in the second. 

The column moved to the edge of an open field and 
halted for a time under fire. Several men were there 
wounded and others narrowly escaped being struck. A 
tin-cup attached to Capt. Ed. H. Conger's haversack, 
which was suspended at his side, Avas perforated by a 
musket ball. 

Presently the word "forward " ran along the line, and 
we moved " at double-quick " into the open field. As 
the column emerged from the woods we observed that it 
was connected with a long line of blue that was sweep- 
inof across the field on the rio-ht. Our advance was accel- 
erated by the inspiring scene, and we ran at the toj) of 
our speed to the edge of the woods in front. There we 
were ordered to halt and lie down, and many no doubt 
felt inclined to " grab a root." 

Strange as it may appear, no one was hit in crossing the 
field. When we halted, the rebels poured in their balls 
thick and fast. One or two men were there wounded. 

Light breastworks were thrown up, but had scarcely 
been finished when we were ordered to the right a quar- 
ter of a mile. Moved under fire to the new position. 
In passing over a hill \vere in plain view of the rebel 
sharpshooters. Near the summit of the hill one of the 
men fell, severely wounded. 

Again we were ordered to fortify, and during that 
evening and the following night finished another line of 
Avorks. 

Next morning we marched to the position where 
Gen. William's division repulsed the enemy near the Kulp 
House. Some of the dead were yet unburied. We 
camped in line of battle— -reserve line — in a hollow where 
many of them had fallen. A small strip of timber at the 
bottom of the ravine had been fau'ly riddled by shot and 



80 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

shell from William's division. Pools of blood here and 
there indicated where the brave but misguided rebels 
fell. It was one of Hood's slaughter pens. 

In our position as reserves at that place, we were as 
much exposed to the enemy's balls as we would have 
been on the front line. They sometimes passed far 
beyond us to the rear. At other times dropped uncom- 
fortably near. There we remained until the night of the 
26th when we moved up to the front line. 

During the time we were in reserve the Brigade fur- 
nished pickets every evening — as was customary when 
in the front. The men were thus often brought into 
close contact with the enemy, for the skirmishers were 
seldom idle, day or night. 

Our position in the line was about five miles southwest 
of Kenesaw Mountain, and commanded a view of the 
Mountain, and much of the intervening country. Ken- 
esaw Mountain proper is the highest peak of a double 
mountain, and rises " eighteen hundred and twenty-eight 
feet above the sea level."* The summit is nearly bare. 
A live tree, which stands on the highest point, may be 
seen as far as the Mountain itself is visible. 

Kenesaw was in included within the rebel lines. Upon 
its summit they had planted heavy artillery. 

The morning of the 27th the troops were ordered to 
remain near the breastworks — ready to take arms at a 
moment's notice. The programme was that there should 
be a demonstration all along the line, and at eight o'clock 
an assault at some point on the left. At an early hour 
the artillery commenced work, and the firing was con- 
stant until eight a. m. 

At that time the cannonading in a measure ceased. 
Those who were in eligible positions saw dense columns 
of blue, far away to the left, advancing across an open 
field towards the enemy. Soon they disappeared in thick 
Avoods, and there was a crashing roll of musketry, which 
increased every moment and held all observers spell- 
bound. From our batteries in the open field referred to, 

* Lippincott's Geographical Dictionary. 



. ASSAULTING THE REBEL WORKS. 81 

llie white smoke leaped; at. times from each gun in suc- 
cession, and then from all together, and the bursting 
isliells left other white puifs of smoke, away over in the 
woods near the rebel line. And the rebel guns were not 
idle. Volumes of smoke arising at different points in 
the thick woods, indicated their position. Occasionally 
. their balls would make the dust fly on the hillside near 
our batteries. 

Far away beyond the immediate scene of action vol- 
I umes of white smoke rolled away from the guns on Ken- 
esaw Mountain, as thicy threw shot and shell into our 
lines. And above the mountain top, or near its summit, 
the smoke of bursting shells from union guns, was occa- 
sionally seen. 

It was a magnificent battle scene, without a realiza- 

' tion of all the attending horrors. Alas ! amid that storm 

of human passion many true hearts ceased to beat forever. 

The assault was made by parts of the 4tli and 14th 

Corps. The enemy's works were impregnable, and tlie 

assault was a sad failure. The troops fought with des- 

ti perate courage. The 27th Ill's regiment, planted its 

j- colors on the rebel works, but could not hold the position. 

f The assaulting column finally threw up breastworks 

; within a stone's throw of the enemy. 

In reference to the preliminary operations, and the 
subsequent battles about Kenesaw, the following inter- 
esting paragraphs occur in Gen. Sherman's report: 

[. "Kenesaw, the bold and striking twin mountain, lay 

If before us, with a high range of chestnut hills trending 

/ off to the northeast, terminating to our view in another 

'peak, called Brushy Mountain. To our right was the 

smaller hill called Pine Mountain, and beyond it in the 

distance, Lost Mountain. All these, though links in a 

continuous chain, present a sharp, conical appearance, 

prominent in the vast landscape that presents itself from 

any of the hills that abound in that region. Kenesaw, 

Pine Mountain and Lost Mountain form a triangle; Pine 

Mountain the apex, and Kenesaw and Lost Mountains 

the base, covering perfectly the town of Marietta and 

the railroad back to the Chattahoochie." 

******* 



82 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTEY VOLS. 

" The scene was enchanting ; too beautiful to be dis- 
turbed by the harsh clamors of war, but the Chattahoochie 
lay beyond, and I had to reach it." 

* * -X- * * * * 

" During our operations about Kenesaw the weather 
was villainously bad, and the rain fell almost continuously 
for three weeks, rendering our narrow wooded roads 
mere mud gullies, so that a general movement would 
have been impossible, but our men daily worked closer 
and closer to their entrenched foe, and kept up an inces- 
sant picket firing, galling to him." 

After referring to the terrible repulse of Hood's corps 
at the Kulp House, he continues : 

" Although inviting the enemy at all times to commit 
such mistakes, I could not hope for him to repeat them, 
after the example of Dallas and the ' Kulp House,' and 
upon studying the ground, I had no alternative, in my 
turn, but to assault his lines or turn his position. Either 
course had its difficulties and dangers. And I perceived 
that the enemy and our own officers had settled down 
into the conviction that I would not assault fortified 
lines." 

" All looked to me to ' outflank.' An army to be effi- 
cient must not settle down to one single mode of ofi*ense, 
but must be prepared to execute any plan which promises 
success." 

General Sherman therefore resolved to assault the 
enemy's fortified lines, at a point " where success would 
give the largest fruits of victory." Consequently, the 
assault of June 27th was made. After reviewing the 
disastrous result, he says : " Failure as it was, and for 
which I assume the entire responsibility, I yet claim it 
produced good fruits, as it demonstrated to Gen. Johns- 
ton that I would assault and that boldly, and we also 
gained and held ground so close to the enemy's j^arapets 
that he could not show a head above them." 

During the time we were in the front line at the Kulp 
House, the rebel sharpshooters made frequent attempts 
to pick off men who exposed themselves before certain 
openings in the woods. They fired low and their balls 
often grazed the breastworks. One man had liis li]j cut 



MUSICAL BULLETS. 83 

by a ball, and another who was seated upon the ground 
a short distance in the rear of the works, and was about 
to drink a cup of coffee, had his arm barked, and 
his cotfee upset by a ball. 

An explosive ball struck a shelter tent and exploded, 
leaving a number of holes in the tent. 

We were sometimes amused by the music of the mus- 
ket balls. One would come along with the " meow " of 
a kitten, and the men would declare the rebels were 
throwing kittens at them. Another would come with an 
angry h^w^ as if seeking its Yankee victim. And we 
listened to others that had the wailing sound of a win- 
ter's wind. All these sounds were more musical than 
the " zip " of the bullet at short range. 

The brigade was relieved on the 29th, and we marched 
to the rear for a brief rest. Major Gen. Butterfield hav- 
ing been relieved, Brig. Gen. W. T. Ward — more gen- 
erally known as " Pap Ward," assumed command of the 
division, and Col. Benj. Harrison of the YOth Indiana, 
succeeded him in command of the brigade. 

The evening of the first of July the regiment returned 
ti) the second line of works. During the next day there 
was heavy cannonading, and picket firing as usual. At 
night we were ordered to be in readiness to nijve at a 
moment's notice. Before morning the rebels left, and 
shortly after daylight July 3d, the troops were in pur- 
suit. 

Our division moved out on the Marietta road ; the 
brigade in advance of the division, and the 102d in ad- 
vance of the brigade. 

The regiment moved forward, first by the flank, and 
finally in line of battle with Cos. E, G, F and B in ad- 
vance as skirmishers. The four companies were under 
the command of Capt. Sedwick, who first deployed Co. 
E, and afterwards others as they were needed. 

After marching about two miles, the skirmishers 
became engaged with the rear guard of the enemy, 
which was a force of three hundred cavalry. 

Capt. Sedwick managed the aftair with admirable skill. 
The rebels slowly retired, firing irregularly. Several 
times they halted, ane commenced forming a line to 



84 HISTORY OP THE 102d ILL. INFxVXTRY VOLS. 

charge upon oiir skirmish line. But Capt. S. pressed 
forward with his men, and by keeping up a steady fire, 
gave them no time to form. After each attempt they 
retreated in confusion. 

In the meantime the comi^anies in reserve were kept 
up in supporting distance. It was a lively scene. There 
were stately residences at the roadside, with neatly or- 
namented grounds, enclosed by picket fences. In 
advancing it became necessary to pass through these 
enclosures and it was surj^rising to see the boards fly, as 
the men dashed forward. 

In the affair, one man had the skin peeled from his 
cheek, by a passing ball. There were no other casual- 
ties. Capt. Sedwick, with his detachment, finally drove 
the enemy's rear guard out of Marietta, occupying the 
town nearly an hour before any other troops. 

During the morning a great many rebels came in as 
voluntary prisoners. 

About noon there was a movement to the right, an ad- 
vance in line of battle; then by the right flank, into an 
open field, from which the enemy could be seen busily 
throwino; dirt — constructins; works — on a rans^e of hills a 
mile distant. Then there was another movement to the 
right into a secluded and romantic locality. The troops 
were massed on the slope of a hill. At that place Col. 
II. Case, 129th Illinois, enunciated the famous com- 
mand: ^^ Attention, Battalliox ! Order Arms I Five 
men from each company take the canteens and go for 
water, stack/ arms." 

Camped near that locality in thick woods. It had 
been a wearisome day — weather excessively warm. 

The Fourth of July was a quiet day. There was some 
cannonading oft* to the left. We celebrated the day as 
best we could on "hard tack," salt pork and coffee. 
Late in the afternoon moved southward three-fourths of 
a mile ; camped in an apple orchard where we obtained 
plenty of green apples. The army seemed perfectly 
happy that evening. The bands were all playing, and 
the soldiers were singing, laugliing, joking and shouting 
in a manner that would have astonished people in civil 
life. 



FIRST VIEW OF ATLANTA. 85 

Moved again on the 5tli, in the direction of the Chat- 
tahoochie river. 

In the meantime the rebels continued to fiill back. 
There was lieavy skirmishing in front. We crossed 
Nickajack creek and camped on the hill beyond. Ad- 
vanced on tire 6th to the " Chattahoochie heights," 
where, from tree-tops, we first beheld the spires and 
domes of the city of Atlanta. Yankee eyes were there 
fixed on the coveted prize, and Atlanta was doomed. 
We were at that time ten miles from the city. 

It was a proud day for Sherman's men. Day after 
day, and week after week, they had pressed forward — 
worn and weary from marching, fighting and building 
breastworks, — arid at length they seemed about to realize 
the triumph for which they had struggled so long. 

The difiiculties encountered in prosecuting such a 
campaign into the heart of the enemy's country could 
hardly be appreciated by those at a distance from the 
scene of operations. 

The country is rugged and heavily timbered. Vege- 
tation Avas very luxuriant, and all the hills were covered 
with a dense growth of underbrush. 

It required consummate generalship to move forward 
a line of battle fifteen or twenty miles in length througli 
such a wild region. Often it seemed, in advancing, that 
the only way was to " go it blind." A frail line of com- 
munication, extending hundreds of miles through an 
enemy's country, was the only dependence for sui:)plies. 

On the other hand, the enemy were thoroughly ac- 
quainted with the ground over which they fought and 
retreated, and they only fought in chosen positions. 
Whenever they halted they Imilt breastworks of the 
strongest kind. Take the following description as an 
example. First a line of rifle-pits for their skirmishers — 
not difficult to capture. Then in rear of the skirmish 
pits — from one hundred to three hundred yards — a line 
of breastworks ; so constructed that but little more 
than the eyes of the rebels were exposed — a head-log 
being placed upon the works. In front of the line 
chevaux-de-frise, or, as the men termed them, " horse 

6 



86 HISTOllY OF THE 102d IJ.L. INFANTRY VOLS. 

rakes," were placed. Also sharpened stakes. The nn- 
derbrush, which grew every ^^'hel•e m that region, was 
usually cut or hacked and lopped over, between the main 
line and the skirmish line. The tops were so intermin- 
gled that a person could barely pick his way through 
when there was no enemy to oppose. Often there were 
two or three lines of Avorks, and usually a deep ditch in 
front of the first. Military men of less genius than Gen. 
Sherman, would have broken the army into fragments on 
these impregnable works. His fertile mind suggested 
other expedients for defeating the enemy. 

In the face of such opposition the rebel army had 
been pressed back from the vicinity of Chattanooga to 
the Chattahoochie. 

It is said that after Gen. Johnston had followed his re- 
treating policy several weeks, the rebels declared that 
their army was commanded by " Old Billy Sherman," — 
that they invariably moved when Sherman gave the 
command and Johnston only superintended the details 
of the movement." * 

By the 10th of the month the entire rebel army was 
across the river. Our own army remained quiet a num- 
ber of days, enjoying a much needed rest. 



A TEUCE OX THE PICKET LIXE. 87 



CHAPTER VIII. 

Iri Camp on the Chattahoochie Heights. Friendly in- 
tercourse with the Rebel Pickets. Offensive 3Iovements 
Mes'umed. Great Battle at Peach Tree Creek. 
Siege of Atlaxta. 

While encamped on tlie Chattahoochie lieights, there 
was a cessation of hostilities between the pickets of our 
division and the rebel pickets confronting them. 

Friendly interviews were occasionally held, which 
sometimes terminated in an arrang-ement for the John- 
nies to come over and abandon their sinking cause. 

One day while the corps commanded by Hardee was 
still north of the river, Lyman B. Straw, of Co. B, 102d, 
opened communication with a rebel picket and offered 
to exchange papers. Tlie Reb. agreed to exchange, but 
in a few moments announced that he could not obtain a 
paper. 

" Then meet me half way and I will give you one," 
said ' Beecher.' 

"Agreed," said the other. 

The pickets on both sides were cautioned to refrain 
from firing. The parties met and shook hands, when 
the following conversation took place : 

Yankee. Plow are you, Johnnie ? 

Rebel. How are you, Jimmie — and now tell me why 
you call us " Johnnies." 

Yankee. Because you live on Johnnie-cakes. 

Rebel. Well, for a nickname, we must call you Jim- 
mies. When are you going into Atlanta ? 

Yankee. When will you cross the river ? 
[At this a squad of rebels a short distance from them 
laughed heartily, saying it was a genuine Yankee reply.] 



88 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

Rebel. Who commands yovir corps now ? 

Yankee. Joe. Hooker. 

Rebel. I tliouglit Joe. Hooker was dead. We have 
been informed officially, three or four times, that he had 
been killed or womided. I believe the old fellow will 
live forever. 

Yankee. I think he will live to see the rebellion put 
down. By the way, are you not sick of the war ? 

Rebel. Yes. So much so that there are thirteen of us 
here who intend to go over to your lines the first oppor- 
tunity we have. 

Yankee. Come over to-night, then ; we will not fire 
upon you. 

Rebel. All right ; v/e will come. After a fcAV addi- 
tional remarks the parties shook hands and separated. 

During the interview hundreds of the eniemy came 
out of their breastworks to witness the scene. A large 
number of our men were also spectators of the interview. 
When the parties separated, the spectators on both sides 
quietly disappeared. 

According to the arrangement, the rebels attempted to 
come in that night. Unfortunately, however, they made 
the attempt some distance to the left of the picket post 
near which the interview had been held. The rebel 
pickets detected the movement and fired upon them, and 
our pickets, supposing the enemy were about to attack, 
returned the fire. Only three of the thirteen succeeded 
in reachino: our lines. 

After Hardee's corps crossed the river, the pickets of 
the opposing armies confronted each other on opposite 
sides of the stream. A lively traffic in tobacco, cofiee 
and other articles sprang up between them. The rebels 
would swim across with plugs of tobacco tied about 
their necks, and return with a small sack of cofiee. 
There was very little personal hostility between the sol- 
diers of the two armies. They respected each other as 
brave men. 

The troops marched from the heights on the 17th of 
July, late in the afternoon. At dusk crossed the Chatta- 
lioochie on a pontoon bridge at Paice's Ferry. Marched 
three miles beyond the river eastward, and camped o-a 



APPRO ACHIISTG THE ENEMY. 89 

an elevated, stony ridge. Moved next day two and a 
half miles southward, towards Atlanta. Camped in 
heavy timber. Were aroused the mornino- of the 19th, 
at three o'clock, to build breastworks. While the work 
was progressing a sad accident occurred. A tree, cut 
near the line of works, fell across the ground occupied by 
Co. II, mortally wounding S. Kite, who Avas sound 
asleep at the time. He died during the day. 

At seven o'clock a. m., July 20th, w^e were again in 
motion, under orders to occupy a range of hills south of 
Peach Tree Creek. There had been considerable artil- 
lery firing during the two previous days, and it was ap- 
parent, by all the movements, that the enemy were in 
strong force a short distance ahead. 

As we neared the creek, skirmishing became active in 
front, and we were soon in range of the balls. Crossing 
the stream we halted for a time in a corn-field at the 
base of a hill. The day Avas intolerably warm — scarcely 
a breath of air stirring^. At leng^th Ave moA^ed a half 
mile to the right. While marching by the flank through 
a corn-field in the A^alley, an advance Avas made by our 
skirmishers, up the hillside a fcAV hundred yards to the 
left, or front. The rebels fired briskly and their balls 
Avhisked spitefully through the young corn. 'No one in 
the regiment was struck. We halted again at the base 
of the range of hills south of the creek. 

The rebel sharpshooters were busily at work. Several 
m.en were struck Avhile Ave were in that position. A bat- 
tery wliich our artillerymen endeaA^ored to plant on a 
bare hill a short distance in rear of our line, Avas sub- 
jected to such a scathing fire that it was taken away as 
quick as the horses could remove it under Avhip and spur. 
Nevertheless, Ave did not anticipate any very serious 
Avork — nothing more than a slight skirmish, AAdien Ave 
should advance to construct Avorks at the crest of the 
hill. 

Our diAdsion had been formed in an irregular line of 
battle, on the ris^ht of the 4th Corps. The second divi- 
sion rested on our right — some of the regiments closed 
in mass, draAving rations, cooking, &c. The intention 
Avas to deploy the division in line of battle on the right 



90 HISTOEY OF THE 102d ILL. INFAN^TEY YOLS. 

of ours, connecting with the left of the 14th Corps. The 
movement was finally accelerated somewhat by the 
enemy. 

The 1st Division was in reserve. About four o'clock 
p. M., word ran along the line that the rebels were charg- 
ing. At the same moment an order Avas given to ad- 
vance to the crest of the hill. Quickly the men sprang 
into line and moved forward. Reaching the summit, they 
immediately became engaged with the enemy. 

The First Brigade had been formed on the right of the 
division, and the 102d was on the right of the brigade — 
next on the left was the 7 9th Ohio, and on the left of 
that regiment was the 129th Illinois. The 70th Indiana 
and 105th Illinois regiments were at first held in reserve, 
but they moved forward when the battle was at its 
height, and engaged the enemy in a hand to hand fight. 

On the right of our regiment, a battery had been 
planted. Near this battery the left of the 2d Division 
rested, when the battle commenced. 

The 102d occupied a knoll, in front of which was a 
clump of timber and a small creek. Farther to the left 
this stream curved northward, and across it the left of 
the brigade was formed. 

The rebels advanced in heavy masses down the slope 
of a hill in front of the 2d and 3d Brigades, and the left 
of our brigade. The inequalities of the ground prevented 
them from advancing in force in our immediate front. 

On the left of the 20th Corps they struck Newton's Divi- 
sion of the 4th Corps, and on the right engaged a bri- 
gade of the 14th Corps. Between the 14th Corps and 
our position on the line, they hurled a heavy column on 
the 2d division of the 20th Corps. 

Our position on the knoll commanded a fine view of 
the open field through which the enemy advanced on the 
left. Sheets of fire blazed along the line of muskets in 
their front. Yet without faltering or wavering they 
pressed forward, their advance actually piercing the 
center of our div ision — the body of gray intermingling 
with the line of blue. 



BATTLE OF PEACH TREE CREEK. 91 

They were subjected to a terrible enfilading fire from 
the 79tli Oliio and the 102d Illinois. A perpetual sheet 
of flauie blazed from the Spencer rifles in the hands of 
our men. And the battery on our right with wonderful 
energy poured shot and sliell into their ranks. Still for 
a time they persisted firing as they moved forward. 
Rebel flags waved defiantly in their front line, and were 
shot down — but quickly taken up and carried forward to 
the line where waved the stars and stripes. A hand to 
hand contest ensued at that point, the combattants half 
hidden by fire and smoke and dust. 

Will the enemy never give back ? With intense soli- 
citude we mark the ebb and flow of battle. At last they 
Avaver ; numbers drop to the rear, others quickly follow, 
and finally the entire body is rolled back in utter rout 
and confusion by our advancing lines. And then the 
suppressed feelings of the victors find utterance in a 
shout that rises high above the roar of battle — a wild, 
thrilling, prolonged shout of victory. 

In the meantime, unknown to most of us. Gen. Geary's 
Division had been pressed back in confusion. The 
enemy followed up their advantage with the utmost im- 
petuosity, and their columns surged around on our right 
until they had nearly reached the rear of our regiment. 
A battery which temporarily fell into their hands, was 
turned upon us, the guns enfiladmg the line formed by 
our brigade. 

At that critical moment an Aid rode up to our regi- 
mental commander, Capt. Wm. A. Wilson, and told him 
that unless he withdrew the regiment it would be cap- 
tured in less than five minutes. The Captain " didn't 
see it." The battery on his right was being served with 
unexampled skill and bravery, and he had determined to 
stand by it to the last. 

It was a critical situation. Victory was almost within 
tlie grasp of the impetuous enemy, but at this juncture 
the 1st Division, which had been held in reserve, rushed 
forward and restored the fortunes of the day. 

Defeated at all points, the rebels abandoned the field 
leaving the most of their dead and wounded in our 
hands, besides a large number of prisoners. 



92 HISTORY OF THE 102d ill. infantry VOI^S. 

Sharp skirmishing and heavy cannonading continued 
however, until dark. As darkness came on, the smoke 
of battle settled down over the field, and still, through 
the deepening gloom the blaze of our cannons could be 
seen on the right and left, and the flash of picket guns at 
intervals along the line. 

The night was calm, and as the full moon approached 
the zenith, it shone brightly over a quiet field, illumina- 
ting the pale features of the dead. The living had 
sought repose, save the watchful sentinels, and here and 
there a wakeful soldier, whose eyes perchance wandered 
to the gauzy clouds, floating before the moon, flecked 
with a thousand delicate hues, and faintly veiling the 
distant stars. In the midst of such loveliness how 
strange that men should enact the savage scenes of 
war. 

The following day was occupied in burying the dead. 
The slope of the hill on the left, down w^hich the enemy 
had moved so bravely the day before, was thickly strewn 
with then* dead. 

In the report of the Atlanta campaign, Gen. Sherman^ 
states that at the battle of Peach Tree Creek; "the' 
enemy left on the field five hundred dead, three thousand 
wounded severely, seven stands of colors, and many 
prisoners. His loss could not have fallen short of five 
thousand, whereas ours was covered by fifteen hundred 
killed, Avounded and missing." Gen. Hooker estimated 
the enemy's loss at six thousand. Our brigade captured 
three stands of colors. 

Owing to the favorable position our regiment occupied 
we lost lightly — two men killed and nine wounded. The 
loss of the brigade was about one hundred and seventy 
killed and wounded. 

Although the 102d escaped with so little loss, the regi- 
ment inflicted immense damage on the enemy. It was 
estimated at the time, that five thousand rounds of cart- 
ridges w^ere fired from the Spencer rifles alone. 

Capt. Wm. A. Wilson commanded the regiment 
during the action. He was ably assisted by Capt. Dan 
"VV. Sedwick. Lieut. Col. Mannon was too unwell to 
command, yet he remained with the regiment during the 
battle. 



BATTLE OF PEACH TREE CREEK. 93 

The men needed no encouragement to induce them to 
do their duty. Tliey fought Avith the enthusiasm of 
patriots and tlie coolness of veterans. 

The officers were all at their posts. Capt. Andrews, 
on the right, no doubt made up his mind during the 
crisis of the iight, that he would in accordance with his 
usual obstinacy die right there rather than give back an 
inch. Capt. Woolley, it is presumed, made an applica- 
tion of his celebrated axiom in philosophy, namely — 
" TTell^ it is just like this, everything has a beginning 
and an ending — except a ring, and that had before it 
was weldedy And thus fortified he endured to the end, 
and received due credit for his good conduct. 

Capt. Clay's black eye flashed fire as he maneuvered 
Co. D. 

Capt. Conger, ever at his post in the hour of danger, 
coolly and judiciously directed the operations of Co. I. 

Lieut. Trego with the light of battle in his eye told 
Co. C where to fire. 

Co. H, commanded by Capt. Elliott — one of the 
bravest among the brave — did gallant work. 

Co. E warmed up the Spencer guns as the hearts of 
the men became warmed with patriotic enthusiasm. The 
company was commanded by Lieut. Brown, who seemed 
as cool in battle as on battallion drill. 

Lieut. Willets commanded Co. K, and under his guid- 
ance that company added fresh laurels to its fame. 

The men of " G," were bravely led by Lieut. Bridge- 
ford. The company was much exposed, but did its duty 
well. 

Co B, under Orderly Terpening, moved forward where 
the balls flew thickest, and fought nobly. 

Adjutant J. H. Snyder was conspicuous along the line, 
aiding the commanding officers. 

Capt. J. Y. Merritt, was in the fight as Brig. Provost 
Marshal. Lieut. Peebles commanded the sharpshooters. 

Lieut. She ah an and Lieut. Jordan, efficiently aided 
their respective company commanders. 

The brigade commander, Col. Ben. Harrison alias 
" Little Ben," moved from point to point along the line, 
utterly reckless of flying balls. 



94 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. IXFANTEY VOLS, 

General Ward had established his headquarters in the 
valley, near the creek, and at a point that commanded a 
view of the field where his Division fought. It is said 
the old General was in ecstacies when the 1st Brigade 
went into action. " See my old Iron Brigade," said he, 
striking his fists together. " See my old Iron Brigade — 
see them go in — the best d — d brigade in the service !" 

Throughout the fight the 1st Brigade preserved an 
unbroken line, giving back not an inch, and never 
wavering for a moment. 

The entire corps Avas elated with the victory. It had 
been an oj^en field fight, in which the advantages were 
with the enemy. The morning after the battle General 
Hooker rode along the lines and received the tumultu- 
ous cheers of the soldiers. Subsequently he issued a 
congratulatory order. 

An extensive budget of incidents could be made up 
in giving an account of each battle. These were some- 
times amusing and sometimes painful. The conduct of 
some of the men while under fire at Peach Tree Creek 
was j^articularly amusing. An excentric member of 
Company C was in his element. Wild with enthusiasm, 
he committed all kinds of antics, firing his gun and 
waving his hat alternately, and yelling occasionally like 
a Comanche Indian. 

An instance of unsurpassed courage is related of a 
rebel Captain, whose maneuvres were observed by an 
ofticer in the 129th Illiuois regiment. The rebel officer 
was a tail, fine looking man. With drawn sword he 
walked along the rear of his company and urged the men 
forward to our line of battle, manifesting not the slightest 
re<2:ard for the bullets that were thinnina; the ranks about 
him. As the rebel line commenced giving away he 
vainly endeavored to rally his men, and when they fled 
in utter confusion, he walked away as coolly as if prome- 
nading for pleasure. It was an extraordinary exhibition 
of cool coura2:e. Amono- the rebel wounded there was 
a young girl only nineteen years of age. A ball had 
struck her ankle and she was obliged to have her foot 
amputated. She bore her suffering heroically. Stated 



GATnERING ACOKNS UNDER DIFFICULTIES. 95 

that she had been twenty-eight months in the rebel ser- 
vice, and was not sorry that she had enlisted, but would 
willingly suffer twice as much for her country. 

The night after the battle, a member of the 129th Illi- 
nois Regiment, being posted as a vidette, heard men 
talking in a ravine about fifty yards from him. He 
hailed them and threatened to tire, and they replied that 
they would surrender. They immediately marched up, 
fourteen in number, and surrendered to the astonished 
vidette. A commissioned officer was with them. During 
the battle they had advanced into a position from which 
they could not retire without great peril. When hailed 
by the vidette they were making preparations to return 
to their own lines. 

It is said that General Hood told his men, when about 
to advance, that they were " going out to gather acorns ;" 
alluding to the men of the 14th corps, who wore a badge 
representing an acorn. Their intention was to break 
through the line on the left of that corps, as we subse- 
quently learned. They did not suppose they would 
encounter anything more than a mere skirmish line in 
tlieir front, but were wofully disappointed, for in their 
course they met the ubiquitous "stars.". 

The advance was resumed July 22d, the enemy hav- 
ing fallen back from the position occupied the previous 
day. We advanced some distance without opposition — 
marching in line of battle through dense underbrush, 
where the briars were thick, and loaded with luscious 
blackberries, which we were compelled to leave for the 
"bummers." 

Many thought we would march into the city without 
further opposition. Gen. Sherman, in his report referring 
to the evacuation of the rebel line in front of Peach Tree 
Creek, says : " On the morning of the 22d, somewhat to 
my surprise, this whole line was found abandoned, and I 
confess I thought the enemy had resolved to give us At- 
lanta without further contest." 

But the enemy was soon develoj^ed, "and by noon the 
great battle in which the lamented McPherson fell, com- 
menced on the extreme left of the army. 



96 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

The 20tli corps pressed up close to the enemy's forts 
around Atlanta^ and erected breastworks, our Brigade 
occiipymg a position on the line three-fourths of a mile 
east of the Chattanoosja and Atlanta railroad. 

In that position the enemy shelled us very actively 
during the evening of the 22d, also on the 23d, 24th and 
25th. Two men in the regiment were wounded. 

The shelling at night was really interesting. The 
flash of rebel guns at different points along the horizon 
resembling the blaze of lightning from a rising cloud ; 
but the occasional bursting of shells in close proximity 
to our works, detracted immensely from the romance of 
the situation. While in that position the pickets had 
several sharp encounters with the enemy. The Brigade 
picket line was driven in by a superior force on the 24th 
of July. By a special order from the Brigade Com- 
mander, Captain Sedwick, with Co. E, was directed to 
reinforce the line and recover the lost ground. After a 
sharp skirmish the rebels were compelled to retire. 

The picket hue in front of our Brigade was consider- 
ably in advance of the line on the right and on the left. 
A deep ravine running from the rebel line traversed the 
left of our line and passed in rear of the reserve post. 
By following this ravine the rebels might have flanked 
the line at any time. The knowledge of this fact ren- 
dered the men constantly uneasy when on duty in that 
advanced position. On the night of the 24th, about 11 
o'clock, the enemy made a heavy demonstration on that 
part of the line. The stillness of the night was sud- 
denly broken by a terrific fire of musketry. Lieut. A. II. 
Trego commanded the outposts at that time. A few of 
his men became panic-stricken and fled to the rear, but 
the Lieutenant gallantly rallied the remainder, and, amid 
a shower of rebel bullets, urged them to stand firm. 
And they did, for there were a number of dauntless 
spirits under his command. Among others "Booth" 
Abbott, of Co. A, handled his Spencer magnificently on 
that occasion. -At length the rebels were repulsed. 
Lieut. Trego then learned that the reserve post had been 
abandoned by all save Lieut. Willard Scott of the 105th, 
and a handful of men. It appears that there were two 



SEIGE OF ATLANTA. 97 

heavy lines of rebels. This force was repelled by a 
weak skirmish line, which had been ingloriously deserted 
by a majority of the reserve or supporting force. 

The night of the 25th we moved to a new line of 
works a hundred yards in advance. At that place we 
remained under lire until the evening of the 26th. 
While there a member of Co. 1 was severely wounded. 
Just as we were preparing to go to bed, the evening of 
the 26tli, the regiment Avas relieved and ordered to 
another part of the field. We then moved to the rear 
and right, occupying a portion of the second line of 
works in good shelling range of the enemy. And while 
there they improved the opportunity to shell us day and 
night — occasionally throwing some huge missiles that 
had the appearance of old-fashioned wagon hubs. 

At that place, on the 29th, General Hooker assembled 
the officers of the 3d Division and bade them adieu, 
stating that he had been misused and could not consis- 
tently retain the command of the 20th corps. The old 
General had become very popular among the officers and 
men of his corps during the campaign, and all regretted 
his departure. 

Many who had looked upon him with distrust and 
prejudice, before serving under him, became convinced, 
after a few months campaigning, that he could handle 
his troops with masterly skill, and when assuming a haz- 
ardous position in presence of the enemy, they only 
asked to know that old " Uncle Joe " was around. 

During the afternoon of the 28th, the battle of Ezra's 
Church took ^^lace. The fight was several miles away 
towards the right. The 3d Division was ordered around 
to support the troops engaged but had not proceeded far 
before the order was countermanded. Our assistance 
was not needed, and Ave returned to the camp on the left 
of the railroad. 

Next morning the Division moved to the extreme 
rio-ht flank of the armv, Avhere it Avas formed in line of 
battle at a riglit angle with the main line, thus covermg 
and protecting the fiank and rear. 



98 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

Nothing of special interest occurred while in that po- 
sition. On the 2d day of August the 23d Corps moved 
around to the right flank. Our Division was relieved 
and we marched towards the left. Halted late in the 
evening in an open Held in rear of the 14th Corps. 
Moved next morning at sunrise into a position on the left 
of the 14th Corps, occupying a beautiful plat of ground 
in rear of strong works, west of, and very near the rail- 
road. 

Colonel Smith, having recovered from his wound, 
rejoined the liegiment on the 10th. 

We remained in that vicinity until the 25th of the 
month, occasionally advancing the lines. The work of 
advancing the lines was usually accomplished in the fol- 
lowing manner. A new general line was selected from 
50 to 100 yards in advance, shorte»ing a part of the 
curved line formed by the besieging army. The brigade 
or brigades in rear of the new line furnished fatigue 
parties from each regiment, which parties finished sub- 
stantial works in a day or two, and under cover of night 
the troops took possession of them. We moved thus 
into a new line on the night of the 5th of August, and 
again on the 13th of the month. 

A sketch of one day's experience at that time would 
be almost a counterpart of the history of each day passed 
before Atlanta. 

There were occasional exciting moments when the 
pickets became engaged far away on the right, on the 
left, or in front. Sometimes these affairs occurred in the 
daytime, but more frequently at night. One quiet after- 
noon, when the men were variously emj)loyed about the 
quarters — reading, writing, playing cards, etc., an alarm 
of this kind occurred. The rebels made a dash on the 
picket line in front, and for a time we thought they were 
coming for its. Quickly every man was at the breast- 
works with gun in hand. The balls of the enemy flew 
around very lively for awhile. But it was only a 
demonstration on the picket line, and soon all was quiet 
again. 



SIEGE OF ATLANTA. 99 

During all those days picket firing and cannonading 
scarcely ceased for a moment. It is true that on some 
parts of the line the pickets of the opposing armies oc- 
casionally agreed to an informal truce, but at other 
points the firing was perpetual. 

Many guns had been placed in position along our 
works. One 4-J- inch rifled piece on the left of the rail- 
road, sent a huge shell into the city every five minutes 
regularly, day and night. Far in the night Ave listened 
to its heavy " boom," followed by the fluttering of the 
shell, and then a dull, hollow, unearthly roai away over 
in the city, as if the bursting shell had crashed through 
huge buildings. 

The rebels sometimes opened vehemently with their 
guns, but they were usually silenced by our batteries. 

The practice of standing at arms was strictly ob- 
served at that time, or, at least, strict orders were issued 
requiring the men to be in the trenches with their guns 
by four o'clock each morning. It was sometimes a little 
diflScult to enforce the order as the men had been over- 
tasked for many weeks in succession. 

An amusing incident illustrating this phase of our 
experience occurred on the morning of August 18th. At 
four o'clock, as usual, the orderly sergeants commenced 
the task of arousing the men. But the men were 
drowsy ; some yawned and rolled over, while a few 
reluctantly threw their blankets from them and got 
up. The orderlies were making unusually slow progress 
in their work, when the sound of a rebel cannon broke 
on the still morning air, and a shell burst with a deafen- 
ing sound near our breast-works, scattering fragments 
promiscuously through the quarters. Others followed, 
passing close to the works, and in less time than it 
requires to write this sentence every man was at his post 
in the trenches. 

Several mornings the enemy commenced firing about 
daylight, but a converging fire was brought to bear upon 
their forts from batteries along our line, and they were 
soon willing' to let us alone. 

A battery on our right which was called the Dutch 
Battery " talked " to them in a way that was amusing. 
Whenever the rebel guns commenced, the Dutch 



100 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

Battery opened — " firing by file " — " bang," " bang," 
" bang," one gun after another quickly dropping a shell 
in the rebel line. It was evident the enemy got the 
worst of it whenever they stirred up the Dutch Battery. 

The opposing picket lines were in some places very 
close together. The post on the extreme left of the line 
was established for a time on the railroad in an old wood 
shed, and was not more than fifty yards from the rebel 
picket line. The men were compelled in that position to 
remain closely under cover, as the least exposure of the 
person attracted a rebel ball. Several men were 
wounded in that vicinity, and a Lieutenant from the 
105th was killed there. 

The left of the brigade being on higher and more open 
ground, was more exposed to the enemy's fire than the 
right. The 105th suffered most severely. Men were 
struck by stray balls while lying in their bunks in rear of 
the works. The 102d had but three men wounded while 
there. It is strange that the casualties were so few as the 
men were exposed to the enemy's fire, day after day, and 
week after week, on the picket line and in camp, and 
had almost reached the conclusion that lead was a prim- 
ary element in the Georgia atmosphere. 

Some of the most imposing scenes of the war are 
associated with our recollections of the siege of Atlanta. 
Sherman's grand army formed a line of battle at least 
fifteen miles in length. Let us look at the picture : 
First we observe the irregular line of breast-works wind- 
ing mile after mile, over hill and valley. In rear of these 
were the small white shelter tents, pitched in regular 
order, and a little farther to the rear were long lines of red 
earth, indicating the positions from which the army 
had advanced. From several points the city was plainly 
visible, and through openings in the forest the rebel forts 
and line of earthworks could be seen ; at times thronged 
with men in gray. From a higli range of hills in the 
rear of our position we had a fine view of the situation. 
Farther to the rear the immense wagon trains were 
grouped. Here and there were clusters of neat hospital 
tents. AH the roads were thronged with footmen and 



SIEGE OF ATLANTA. 101 

horsemen, teamsters, orderlies, Generals and staff 
officers. In the front the scene was no less active. The 
inevitable picket firincr^ as regular as the " droppino-s " 
of a slow rain, reached the ear from the picket line. Men 
in ])lue, as busy as ants, Avere constantly moving hither 
and thither, in the rear of the main line. Light wreaths 
of smoke were visible where om- cannons Avere at work, 
and little white " puffs " were occasionally suspended in 
mid air by exploding rebel shells. The deep, dull roar 
of artillery, far away, right and left, was heard. 

If a single element was needed to render the impres- 
sion intensely A^vid, it was supplied by the glorious 
music of the field bands, playing those noble campaign 
pieces, Avhieh Avill ncA^er be heard in these days of peace 
without bringing a tear to the soldier's eye. 

The long delay before Atlanta tested the moral cour- 
age of the army. What Avould be done next ? The 
enemy's position seemed impregnable in front. Was 
Sherman at last brought to a dead lock ? Had his flank- 
ing machine entirely played out? 

Thus we queried, watched and waited. " Grape-Adne " 
— that is, army news receiA^ed through unofficial sources, 
— Avas for a time A^ery scarce, and commanded a pre- 
mium. At length the prolongation of the line to the 
right commenced, and CA^ery individual in the vast army 
evinced almost as much interest in the result as Gen. 
Sherman himself. Finally it appeared that the rebel line 
of communication could not be reached in that manner, 
and there Avere rumors of a grand moA'^ement of the 
Avhole army to the right. 

The character of this moA^ement Avas fully dcA^eloped 
on the 25th of August. We received orders that day to 
march the folloAving night to the Chattahoochie — the 20th 
Corps haA'ing been assigned the duty of guarding the 
supplies and the railroad bridge at that point. Portions 
of the main army at the same time commenced the grand 
movement to the righton the West Point and Macon rail- 
roads. EA^ery arrangement was made during the day 
for the contemplated moA'^ement, and the utmost care 
was taken to prevent the enemy from suspecting that 



102 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

anything unusual was transpiring. The wheels of the 
artillery wagons were carefully wrapped with cloths, and 
in the order directing the details of the movement it was 
announced that the signal for the movement to com- 
mence would be communicated in the following manner : 
The field bands playing as usual after night-fall, were to 
cease precisely at eight o'clock, concluding with a piece 
previously agreed upon, and at that instant the columns 
were to move. 

Night came ; all was quiet ; the bands assembled, gave 
us several inspiring strains, and finished up with Yankee 
Doodle, at jjrecisely eight o'clock, then quietly the troops 
retired, leaving the skirmish line intact. 

It was almost daylight before we got into position at 
the Chattahoochie. The pickets did not abandon the 
line confronting the rebels until two or three o'clock in 
the morning, and failing to get the order to retire, the 
pickets of the 105th 111. remained until about daylight. 
The movement was eflected without any loss, and the 
enemy was surprised and sadly puzzled, when, as daylight 
dawned they found the whole line in their front aban- 
doned. 

The 1st Brigade was finally moved across the Chatta- 
hoochie to a position on the railroad a mile north of the 
bridge, occupying a line of old rebel works, which efi'ec- 
tually commanded all approaches from the JSTorth. 

In the meantime the main army swept down upon the 
rebel lines of communication south of Atlanta ; compell- 
ing the evacuation of the city, which took place on the 
night of the 1st of Sept., and early on the morning of the 
2d, Gen. Ward, with a part of the 3d Division occupied 
the place. 

Thus at last the object for which we had marched, 
fought, and suffered so many months, had been attained. 
When the regiment left Wauhatchie, four months pre- 
vious, to a day, it reported four hundred and fifty enlisted 
men for duty. When it left the front line before Atlanta, 
August 25th, it numbered two hundred and eighty of 
that class. Disease and rebel bullets had thinned our 



END OF THE CAMPAIGN. 103 

ranks. Two hundi-ed and eighty men in line of battle 
out of about nine hundred non-commissioned officers and 
privates who put on the blue uniform at Knoxville ! 

The reader is referred to the concluding chapter for a 
full and very interesting " Keport of operations of the 
102d during the Atlanta campaign," by Col. F. C. 
Smith. 



10 i HISTORY OP THE 102d ILL. I^STFANTRY VOLS. 



CHAPTER IX. 

llailroad guarding at the Ghattahoochie. A long rest. 
Mysterious rumors. " Grape-vine'''' played out. Diary 

0/"TlIE MaECH TO THE SeA." 

From the fall of Atlanta to the commenceTnent of the 
great Georgia raid, the 102d was principally occupied in 
guarding the railroad. There were several changes of 
position and a short sojourn at Atlanta. We marched 
to that city on the 16th of Sept., and camped in the rear 
of the vacated line of rebel forts and earthworks south- 
east of the town. 

While encamped near Atlanta, Col. Benj. Harrison 
went home on a leave of absence and Col. Smith suc- 
ceeded him in the command of the brigade. The Colo- 
nel remained in command during the subsequent long 
march throuixh Georo-ia. 

Lieut. Col. Mannon had resigned a short time previous 
on account of physical disability, and the command of 
the regiment devolved upon Capt. Wm. A. Wilson. 

Every preparation Avas there made for a permanent 
encampment. Vacated buildings in the city had been 
set apart for each regiment. These were torn down, 
*' toted," and hauled into camp, and transformed into neat 
little c-?>mp huts. Day after day, from morning till 
night, the sound of the hammer was heard, and by the 
1st of October, the little village of huts was almost 
finished. Some of the men were still at work, however, 
when just after dinner on that day an order was received 
to pack up and return immediately to the Chattahoochie 
river. 

The soldiers declared it was " rough " — swore a little 
— marched until after night, part of the time through a 
heavy rain, and most of them next day were pleased 
with the change. 



IX CAMP AT THE CHATTAHOOCHIE. 105 

The occasion of the sudden march was the besfinnmf:: 
of Hood's celebrated flank movement. Soon the whole 
army, exceptmg the 20tli Corps, was on the move north- 
ward, and during the 3d and 4th of Oct., heavy columns 
of infantry and cavalry with artillery, constantly crowded 
the road leading northward, near our camp. 

Our camp had been established on an elevation north 
of the river a short distance from the railroad bridge. 
While there a freshet carried away the central sections 
of the bridge. The afternoon of the 4th we re-crossed 
the river and with the 79th Ohio and 129th Illinois regi- 
ments, to 3k up a positio.i behind a strong line of works, 
covering the main approaches to the bridge from the 
south and southwest. The 'TOth Indiana was then sta- 
tioned at Sandtown. The 105th was in camp north of 
the river, where it had been subsequent to the time the 
other regiments of the brigade moved to Atlanta on tlie 
16th of Sept. 

Thus we were left during many monotonous days. 
Still it was a pleasant encampment. The weather was 
much of the time beautiful. During those calm, deli- 
cious autumn days, it was a pleasure to wander along the 
bank of the dark and rapid Chattahoochie, and into tlie 
groves, gorgeous with the many hues of autumn. The 
forests of the South, at that season of the year excel our 
own in beauty. The variety of colors, and shades of 
colors, is wonderful. There is a general sombre hue, 
but this is varied by deep scarlet, purple, and bright yel- 
low foliage, and internnngled with these, the deep grecu 
of the pines. 

Instead of being suddenly browned as our woods are 
by early frosts, the forests of the South are changed from 
the green of Summer to the hues of Autumn more 
naturally. The leaves die of old age and seem 
crowned with its honors. 

But we were not altogether inactive in that position. 
Several foraging expeditions were made by detachments 
from the regiment, and those who participated had some 
hard marching mixed in with a little fun, and a very 
little lighting. 



106 niSTORY OF THE 102d ill. infantry vols. 

While encamped there, several casualties occurred to 
members of the regiment who were absent on furlough. 
A train going northward, about the first of Nov., was 
attacked near Vinings, by Guerrillas. 1st Sergt. Thomas 
Merrick, Co. F, was severely wounded by them. The 
wound subsequently proved fotal. Abner T. Morford, 
of Co. E, was captured. A brief account of his captivity 
will be found in the final chapter of this work. 

About the same time one man was killed and two were 
severely wounded by a railroad collision near Lafiiyette, 
Indiana. 

The circumstances attending these casualties were of 
such a peculiar nature that it will be a pardonable di- 
gression to sketch them here. The men from the 102d 
on board the train, were Sergt. Geo. P. Cummino;, Co. 
H, 1st Sergt. Geo. W. Gregg, Co. C, and " Booth^" Ab- 
bott, Co. A. They had taken seats in the car next in 
rear of the baggage car, but at the moment of tlie colli- 
sion, Sergt. Gregg was standing on the forward platform 
of the car with about a half dozen other soldiers. By 
the force of the collision, the baggage car was driven 
back through the one in rear of it, the passenger car 
encasing it like a shell. Within the passenger car, 
crushed beneath the ba2:2:a2:e car, there was a bleedino; 
mass of humanity, but Sergt. Gregg, as if by a miracle, 
was forced through the car without having any bones 
broken. His injuries were nevertheless serious, and un- 
fitted him for duty for some tim.e. Sergt. Cumming was 
instantly killed. How easily our destinies may be 
changed, ai:)parently at least, by trifling circumstances. 
The case of Sergt. Cumming is one in point. 

One day while we were on the front line before At- 
lanta, it occurred to him that it would be pleasant to take 
a walk a short distance along the line of works. In do- 
ing so he passed into a somewhat exposed position and 
was struck by a rebel bullet which wounded him quite 
severely. In consequence of the wound, he received a 
furlough and started home just in time to meet death on 
the ill-fated train. 



PREPARATIONS FOR AX ACTIVE CAMPAIGN. 107 

Our friend "Booth" of course came out all right, yet 
lie came out through great tribulation. He was caught 
and held fast in tlie car in such a situation that he was, 
for about an hour, at the point of suifocating. When 
relieved, he came forth black as an Etheopian, sweating 
profusely, and puffing like a porpoise. 

Booth's adventures while on furlough would alone 
make quite a volume. In Kentucky he fell into the 
hands of guerrillas, and at some place enroute for the 
Regiment, fell into the hands of some drunken Irish sol- 
diers. It is said, however, that in the latter case he 
gained a decided victory. 

On the 26th day of October, Capt. Wilson having re- 
signed, Capt. H. H. Clay, of Co. D, took command of 
the Regiment. He was subsequently commissioned and 
mustered as Major. 

About the first of ISTovember mysterious rumors 
reached us in regard to a contemplated movement in 
which the 20th Corps would participate. By the 5th of 
the month all surplus baggage was packed up, and, as 
fast as transportation could be furnished, it was sent to 
Chattanooga. But the order to move was for a time 
suspended. 

For once the army was completely nonplussed. The 
impending campaign, or march, was an inexplicable rid- 
dle. In what direction would we move ? Some persons 
said after Hood, others on Mobile, and the most know- 
ing suggested Charleston or Savannah. " Grape-vine " 
was utterly at fault ; all the reports through that chan- 
nel tending only to confuse the judgment. 

But the conviction was universal that the army was 
in safe hands while directed by Sherman, and with it he 
could go where he pleased. Preparations for the cam- 
paign went rapidly forward from day to day, and on the 
12th of November the last train of cars went Northward. 
That afternoon the work of destroying the railroad com- 
menced. For an account of the subsequent march, the 
reader is referred to the following diary, which is given 
substantially as it was furnished by myself for the 
Galesbtirg Free Press : 



108 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. IXFAXTRY VOLS. 

DIARY OF THE GREAT GEORGIA RAID. 

[The original notes from which the following diary 
has been transeribed, were written " in season and out 
of season," in camp and on the march, in daytime and 
at night, and were intended to be a true record of events 
as the days rolled by. The original diary is repeated 
here, Avith but slight alterations. A few items have 
been omitted, and a few paragraphs have been added 
by way of amplifieation. Where stars have been in- 
serted, the reader may usually understand that a march 
intervened between the time of writing the paragraphs 
which are thereby separated.] 



Monday, Nov. 14, 1864. 
Marched from the bridge at Chattahoochie River, by 
a circuitous route, to Atlanta. Camped on our old 
camping ground near the city. All very tired. 

Before leaving camp at the bridge, everything that 
could be of use to the rebels was destroyed. They will 
hardly have the road repaired between Alatoona Moun- 
tains and Atlanta a year from this time. The process of 
destroying the bridge was very interesting. The even- 
ing before we marched we witnessed a large portion of 
the structure fall with a terrible crash. The moon was 
in the eastern sky, and we took up a position that 
placed the bridge directly between us and that luminary. 
A cable was attached to some part of the bridge. A 
regiment pulled at the cable, giving the work a swaj''- 
ing motion that increased to a pendulum-like swing, 
until at length it began to give way ; then huge beams 
swung loose in the air, iron rails struck fire as they fell 
upon the stone piers, and several spans came crasliing 
down into the turbulent river. 

We are now completely isolated from home, and must 
remain so for many weeks. Sherman is on the rampage. 
He will go down to posterity as " The Great Raider." 
We all feel that we are on the grandest raid of the 
war. This isolation in the heart of rebeldom produces 
a feeling of loneliness beyond anything we have yet ex- 
perienced. 



THE SOUTHERX STAXDARD OF WEALTH. 109 

Tuesday, Nov. 15th. 

We do not move early this morning, and may impro\^3 
the time in noting down a few items. 

Lieut. B. is chief of our mess. A Georgia contraban 1, 
not very inteUigent but apparently a faithful boy, coo!:s 
for us. He states that his master was killed in one oi 
the battles of Atlanta. Asked him if his master \u d 
been very wealthy. " No, not very ; only had thrc ^ 
black *uns," was his reply. The negro is here the stan- 
dard of wealth, and the chivah-y would make him t..i 
corner stone of their confederacy. 

As we write, a dark, dense cloud of smoke rolls r:^ 
from Atlanta. Much public property is being ( e- 
stroyed. Is not A. H. Stephens' picture of desolatijii 
about to be realized ? 

Night. — It is almost midnight. We left camp aboii^, 
10 o'clock this morning. Have moved at a snail's pace^ 
owinQT to the slow movement of an immense wasiDn 
train, which we must guard. Have had no supper. 
We are now in Decatur, a very pretty little villas, 
seven miles east of Atlanta. As darkness came on t!xis 
evening, the western sky was lighted up with a mere 
brilliant glow than that imparted by the sun's dechning 
rays ; it was the light of burning buildings. 

Wednesday, Nov. 16th. 

Well, the upshot of it was, we marched all night. At 
daylight halted for breakfast; liaA^e just finished the 
meal, and are again about to move. We are now only 
thirteen miles from Atlanta. 

Evening. — Reached camp at 7|- p. m., having marched 
with but one or two hour's intermission since yesterday 
morning. Too tired and sleepy to write much to-night. 
We are passing through a very good country. Forage 
is becoming abundant. Our camp to-night is at Yellow 
Creek. 

[Thursday, Nov. I7th. 

The sun is sinking low in the west as we write — duri.ig 

a temporary halt of the column. Judging from appe x- 

ances, we could subsist on the country for mon .is 

without recourse to jxovernment rations. We are liv-x^ec 

on the fat of the land. 

•K- * * * * tt h 



110 HISTOKY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

Marched until 8 o'clock this evening. We have had 
fresh pork, chickens, mutton, moi asses, honey and yams 
brought into camp to-day in great abundance. One 
company of our regiment drove m about thirty head of 
cattle. We are living like kings, but are marching in 
wretched order. 

We will close this day's record with a sj^ecimen of 
orthography transcribed from tombstones at a place on 
the line of march. Oneof the slabs mentioned the name 
of the deceased, and added the words, " who was hond 
the 1 of Sept 1853" The next bore the name "Sarah 
Aa who was ^ornc? the 3d of March 18 — and dide the 
Cth of Sept 18 — ." There also seemed to be some doubt 
as to the proper mode of spelling the word wAo, for on 
one of the slabs it was chiseled "hoo." 

In justice to the enlightened portion of the South, we 
will state that these inscriptions were found in a rural 
district, and some charitable persons with us suggested 
that it might have been the work of negroes, which may 
be true. 

Marched eighteen miles to-day, and camped near Flat 
Creek. 
. Friday, Nov. 18th. 

We were up at four o'clock this morning, and marched 
until 8 p. M. Distance fifteen miles. Passed through 
the town of Social Circle, a beautiful little village. Later 
in the day, passed through the town of Rutledge. These 
places are located on the Atlanta tfe Augusta Railroad. 
The country becomes more beautiful and more productive 
as we advance. We are now feeling about the heart- 
strings of the Confederacy. 

The face of the country and the style of the buildings 
strongly remind us of Illinois. Instead of the rugged 
hills of northern Georgia, we here have gently undulating 
plains. 

The rebels, as yet, do not impede our progress. 

Saturday, Nov. 19th. 

We had a glorious sleep last night. Our camp was in 
a field where the coathig of fine grass made an excellent 
bed. We were up this morning at half-past four. 



A KEBEL SEXSATIOX ITEM. Ill 

Late rebel papers have been received. They confinii 
the reported election of Lincohi. One of the papers also 
says, the rumor is prevalent that Sherman has evacuated 
Atlanta, destroyed all the railroad between that place 
and Chattanooga, and is about to march to Charleston. 
The editor discredits the statement. As it is an Augusta 
paper, he may soon have convincing proof that there is 
some foundation for the startlino^ rumor. 

We wish it were in our power to describe a "raid" 
such as we are at present making. To be appreciated it 
must be participated in. We see much that is revolting, 
much that is exciting, and much that is amusing. 
Usually the line of march is indicated by the smoke of 
burning buildings ; nevertheless, but few private residen- 
ces are destroyed, and the people are dealt with as mildly 
as could be expected under the circumstances. The 
troops, it is true, help themselves, indiscriminatel}^, to 
everything eatable on the line of march, but if the South- 
ern people are as generous as they claim to be, no one 
need suffer. Beyond the range of our foragers there is 
evidently food in abundance. Of course, we would not 
countenance indiscriminate foraging, yet Avhere such 
immense bodies of troops are passing through a country, 
everything good to eat must rapidly disappear. Doubt- 
less many innocent little children go hungering ; and 
while this is to be regreted, it is ditticult to see how it 
may be avoided. 

^ As we write, the column has halted in Madison, the 
county seat of Morgan county. This is the most beauti- 
ful town we have seen in Georgia. The old flag is 
unfurled. 

We halt again in the court house square. The band 
of our brigade is playing patriotic airs. The men have 
obtained hies of old papers, and are scattering them by 
hundreds througli the d liferent regiments. 

The buildings in Madison are almost all of the first 
class. Some of them are very elegant. We see here 
numerous evidences of taste and reiinement. 

* * -X- -X- -X- * -H- * -H- 



112 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

The day's march is over. It has been short, but very 
interesting. The march through Madison was a trium- 
phal procession. Fair ladies and okl men looked upon 
the flag they had discarded, and thinking of this, the 
color-bearers bore their colors more proudly. The citi- 
zens manifest a kind of moody indiiference The colored 
people are overjoyed. Many fall in with the column of 
•Yankees, and we think a majority would go with us, but 
some are restrained by considerations aside from any 
feeling of loyalty to their masters. 

We obtained a paper that was publ'slied in Madison 
on the 9th of November, 1859, about the time of the John 
Brown raid. It contained an editorial which opens in 
this style, " The Abolitionists of the North are advanc- 
ing upon us," and the South is advised to " put on her 
armor." That editorial would hardly be an inappropri- 
ate one for Nov. 19th, 1864. 

The men came into camp this evening loaded as usual 
with fresh pork, molasses and yams. As we were march- 
ing along this afternoon the foragers kept up an almost 
uninterrupted fire upon turkies, chickens and porkers. 
All along the column could be seen the fruits of their 
work. One man carried a chicken, another a turkey or 
two, and another a headless sheep. Still others had 
transfixed on the points of their bayonets, pieces of fresh 
23ork — the choice parts — with the hide and hair all on : 

Georgia takes the palm for sweet potatoes, or as they 
are termed here, yams. They are becoming a drug in 
camp. Geograpliically speaking, this State is remark- 
able for the wonderful crops of negroes and yams which 
it produces, and the great amount of molasses which its 
citizens manufacture. The cultivation of cotton is almost 
abandoned ; still, there have been vast quantities stored 
away. We saw a large lot of it burning to-day. It is 
the basis of Southern credit, and we derive a peculiar 
satisfaction from seeing it burn. Some one asked an 
ancient negro — Avho lived at the plantation where it was 
burnino- — whv he set it on fire. " You Yankees did it," 
said he, " and I'm glad of it — it icould never have done 
me no goody 

Everything indicates that we wiVl concentrate at Mil- 
ledgvilh'. 



AN EXCITING CHASE. 113 

We are camped four miles south of Madison. 

Sunday, Nov. 20th. 

Marched at 5 a. m. Considerable rain fell last night, 
and the roads have been very bad ; nevertheless our 
expedition grows more interesting. Our regiment was 
in the advance to-day, and of course had the choice of 
chickens and other game at the roadside. No descrip- 
tion can convey an idea of the scene as the regiment 
came into camp this evening. Almost every one waf^ 
loaded wdth something to eat. Still, an unlucky flock of 
sheep being discovered in the corner of the field, in 
w^hich we had just halted to go into camp, an exciting 
chase commenced. A dozen or more men broke ranks 
and charged upon the flock. A line of battle confronted 
the doomed animals on one side, and a fence confronted 
them on the tw^o other sides of a somewdiat irresrular 
triangle. Hither and thither they dodged; hither and 
thither the boys dodged after them. When one was suc- 
cessful, he almost invariably tumbled down with his 
captive, and then the laughing and cheering in the regi- 
ment was unrestrained. In vain the officers commanded 
attention ; in a few moments the sheep were all captured, 
and most of them fell into the liaads of the 102d. 

To-day, for the first time within six months, we have 
tasted butter. What think you of this, epicurean North- 
ern friends ? 

While jDassing an elegant mansion to-day, we observed 
the first manifestations of Union sentiment on the part 
of citizens since the march commenced. A number of 
ladies at the mansion waved their handkerchiefs as Ave 
passed, and the men cheered heartily. 

Have marched fifteen miles, and camped tw^o miles 
north of Eatonton. It is raining as we write, at nine 
o'clock p. M., and w'e may expect rough marching 
to-morrows 

Monday, Nov. 21st. 

The prediction made last night has been more than 
fulfilled. We marched at daylight, in a steady, pitiless, 
driving rain, which continued during the greater part of 
the day — literally waded through mud. Our camp is 
twelve miles from Milledgeville. Distance marched, 
fifteen miles. 



114 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY YOLS. 

Tuesday, Noy. 2 2d. 

MoYed at fi late lioiir this morning, and reached 
Milledgeville, the capital of Georgia, at a late hour this 
afternoon. Met with no opposition. The town is 
pretty ; but aside from the capitol hirilding and a few 
other structm*es, is rather insignificant. We have seen 
no state caj^ital yet that is as small as the capital of 
Georgia. It is located on the Oconee River, and the 
•only railroad that reaches it is a branch of the Georgia 
Central road. 

The weather is very cold. We are to remain in camp 
here to morrow. 

Wednesday, Nov. 23 d. 

Another cold day — cold at least for this climate. The 
men have been very busy washing and preparing every- 
thing for another forward movement. 

Our fingers are numb with cold, so we will cut short 
this day's record of events. 

Thursday, Nov. 24th. 

We marched from Milledgeville this morning. Before 
proceeding with notices of subsequent events, we must 
give some additional items concerning the city and its 
inhabitants. 

Yesterday we visited the State House, which is a neat 
structure. Looked into the Senate and Hall of Repre- 
sentatives, where tieason had so long held supreme 
sway, and thought the " beggarly array of empty seats " 
were eloquent, though silent speakers. There is a fine 
library in one of the rooms. Many of the books had 
been thrown out at the window. Choice literary and 
scientific works lay piled upon the ground, and a crowd 
of soldiers in selecting from the lot, walked over and 
trampled upon them, and we observeji a horseman ride 
through the crowd purposely to let his horse trample the 
books. It was a very bad exhibition of a very lawless 
nature. Also visited the Arsenal, which contained a large 
assortment of military goods. Among other weaj^ons of 
warfare were a few thousand pikes, and as many cut- 
lasses — formidable looking weapons, indeed, but of little 
value when pitted against Spencer rifles. In the State 
House were twenty or thirty cases of muskets. The 
Arsenal was burned yesterday evening. 



AMONG THE SWAMPS. 115 

The manufacture of cotton goods has been carried on 
quite extensively in this city. By the destruction of the 
niacliinery the business is effectually suspended. By this 
suspension many poor people are thrown out of employ- 
ment. In addition to this misfortune, they have had 
much of their personal property taken from them. Thus 
the hardships of war fall most heavily on those least able 
to bear them, and who are least responsible for the exist- 
ence of war. 

Nearly all of the citizens have left the place. When 
we marched in, keeping step to inspiring martial music, 
the sidewalks and doorways were thronged with 
deliii'hted nesrroes. Some of their ecstatic demonstra- 
tions were ludicrous in the extreme. The white friends 
of the Union, if such there are in that section, Avere not 
visible. We are, indeed, in a land of enemies. 

Feidat, Nov. 25 th. 

Our march of yesterday, which commenced early in 
the morning terminated tliis morning at 3 o'clock. Dis- 
tance, ten miles. Our Division guarded the wagon 
trains, and the frequent miring of the teams in mud holes 
was the cause of our slow progress. The night was very 
cold, and great fires were built along the line of march, 
simply by kindling the pine rail fences, which burned 
very rapidly. Among the rough experiences of the sol- 
dier, there is hardly anything to be named that is more 
disagreeable than a night march, especially if the night 
is cold, and he must keep pace with a slow moving 
wagon train. 

We are moving in the direction of Sandersville. 
********* 

The enemy having burned the bridge over a small 
creek, the column halts to-night five miles from the camp 
Ave left this morning. 

We are passing through a very swamj^y country. The 
soil is sandy. The water in the swamps is clear, and 
the sandy bottom, Avhere washed by the Avaters, is beau- 
tifully white. The forests of pine become more grand 
as Ave adA^ance. We noticed patches of cane brake near 
the edge of the SAvamps ; have also seen the palmetto 



116 HISTOEY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY YOLS. 

ti ee. We still have an abundant supply of rations, — 
c rawn from the country. The rebels can have no excuse 
J or starving our prisoners. There is no scarcity of pro- 
visions in this country. 

Saturday, Nov. 26th. 

" Becalmed " in the heart of the Confederacy ! Such, 

rt least, seems to be our present condition. We are in a 

1 egion of swamps. These are dull, hazy, dreamy days, 

and the column moves tediously along, sometimes halting 

or hours. We moved this morning quite early, and it 

B now afternoon ; yet we are not more than one mile 

rom the camping ground of last night. As if to relieve 

bhe tedious hours of waiting, the band is playing. It 

aas just played Annie Laurie. 

Contrabands are constantly coming to us. They are 
greatly excited throughout this section of the country. 
This Yankee raid is a liuge event in their eyes, and the 
ruling thought in their minds is thus expressed whenever 
neighboring darkies meet : " Is you ghoine .^" 

We have passed the Buffalo Creek swamps, and are 
now on liigher ground, and may expect better roads. 
Wheeler's cavalry is hovering about us. They attacked 
the advance of our column yesterday, and there has been 
some skirmishing in the front to-day. 

Went into camp this evening at Sandersville, before 
sunset. Campmg at such an early hour is something of 
,a novelty with us, and it may be attributed to the prox- 
imity of rebel cavalry Distance marched, eleven miles. 
In the skirmish yesterday, the 9th 111. Mounted Infantry 
lost one man. He was buried in a field by the road- 
side. 

We hear but little of the right wing of our army. The 
14th Corps is now on our left. 

Sunday, Nov. 27th. 

This has been a warm, Indian-Summer day. Our 
march has been quite interesting. The negroes are 
literally flocking in to join the Yankees — old and young, 
and of all shades of color. Their grand exodus from 
this part of Georgia will seriously damage the cause of 
rebellion. It must be excruciatingly painful for the 
slaveholders to see their property walk off thus, 



AN ARMY IX ECSTACIES. 117 

thousands of dollars at a time ! Some of these wretched 
children of Ham present a repulsive appearance, as they 
trudge along in their miserable rags, seeking their free- 
dom. 

There was another skirmish to-day in the advance. 
The column was" not delayed by it. Towards night we 
passed a burning mansion, which had been an elegant 
structure. We were told that it had been fired because 
the rebels attacked our advance at that place. 

This is a rich section of country. The foragers bring 
in fresh pork, chickens, turkies, yams, molasses, and no 
one knows how great a variety of preserves. Talk of 
starving the Southern Confederacy ! The idea is hugely 
ridiculous. The people have as much to eat as our own 
people have, and they raise a greater variety of edibles. 

The business of foraging is most effectually done. For 
instance, in our own reginient four or five men are 
detailed every day from each company, and these men 
roam almost unrestrained through the country. The 
column of troops takes everything at the roadside. The 
foragers go far away, and at night come in loaded with 
provisions. They bring in a great many horses and 
mules. The citizens endeavor to secrete many things, 
and thus save them from the " rapacious Yankees," but 
they have not always been suc<?essful. Some men of Co. 
C found a barrel of sugar secreted in an orchard to-day. 
It is, very white and nice. Indeed, but little can escape 
these experienced foragers. On an average our forces 
are " cleaning out " a scope of country forty miles wide, 
through the heart of the Confederacy. 

Marched fifteen miles to-day. Crossed the Georgia 
Central Railroad at Tenille. Part of the Corj^s has been 
at work destroying the track. We are encamped near 
Davisboro. As I write — about 8 o'clock p. m. — the 
camp is hilariously jubilant. The soldiers yell, cheer 
and laugh like wild men. At times a spontaneous cheer 
breaks out in one regiment, and is echoed and repeated, 
apparently, by the whole corps. Just now a band is 
playing. O, who that participates in this raid can ever 
forget these scenes? An army, apparently, on a 



118 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY YOL 

"bender!" Doubtless the Great Raider is in liis ele- 
ment, and as happy as his men. There is only one 
thought to sadden the thoughtful : amid this waste and 
destruction, many who are innocent must suiter. 

Immense quantities of cotton are burned every day, 
as we advance. As the dense columns of smoke roll up 
towards the sky, we mentally exclaim, " Cotton is 7iot 
King I" 

The band at this moment plays that noble air, " Hail 
Columbia." If there are any rebels within hearing dis- 
tance they must think all Yankeedom is here, having a 
grand jubilee. 

Distance marched to-day thirteen miles. 

Monday, Nov. 28th. 
The above day and date have just passed, it being 
now after midnight — that is the morning of the 29th. 
We have been busy in our line of duty up to this hour. 
Must now secure a few hours of sleep. 

Tuesday, Nov. 29tli. 

It is now almost noon, and we still remain in camp. 
The weather is very warm. We marched yesterday 
eleven miles and camped before night. The bridge 
across the Ogeechee River, just ahead of us, having been 
destroyed by the enemy, we were compelled to halt. 
The plantation of Ilerschel Y. Johnson is about three 
miles from our camp. Men of our regiment wlio visited 
it state that it is well stocked with negroes. The hovise- 
hold property had been buried on the premises. The 
soldiers discovered the place where it was buried, ex- 
humed the boxes and helped themselves. 

Our rations are still of the best quality. Our mess 
had for breakfast this morning " corn pones," fresh pork, 
sweet potatoes, sausages and butter. 

It is becoming apparent that unprincipled men are 
taking advantage of the license given them to forage, 
and are pillaging. No one can tell what outrages may 
not be committed by these villains. Many have aban- 
doned all principles of justice and morality, and only 
seek to gratify their own desires. Alas ! when will the 
days of rapine and bloodshed be past? 



A NEGKO FAMILY IN SEARCH OF FREEDOM. 119 

Marched four miles and crossed the Oo:eechee River 
and Rocky Comfort Creek. The bridore across the Osree- 
chee which the rebels destroyed was an important struc- 
ture. We crossed on pontoons. 

Passed through the small town of Louisville, the shire- 
town of Jefferson county. It has an ancient appearance. 

Wednesday, Nov. 30th. 
Have remained in camp to-day. Nothing of im- 
portance to chronicle. 

Thursday, Dec. 1st. 

The day's march is now over, and we camp six miles 
from our camp of last night. We learn this evening 
that the mounted men of our brisrade had an exciting^ 
little fight some miles away from the road. The squad 
was out taking horses and mules. A detachment of 
rebel cavalry attacked them, and when our men found 
they could not drive the enemy, a retreat commenced, 
and a running fight ensued. Three of our men fell into 
their hands. Some of the captured property was aban- 
doned to the enemy. 

We witnessed a scene to-day that would attract no 
little attention at home. It mi2:ht be termed a neg:ro 
family in search of freedom. A small, tough, and some- 
what venerable negress led the way, bearing a bundle 
which was poised upon her head. A young negro child 
was clinging to her back, and was sustained in its posi- 
tion by her hands. Following her was a girl perhaps 
twelve years old. She also carried a young one in her 
arms. All were most wretchedly clothed. Their dresses, 
which had been patched and re-patched until the origi- 
nal cloth had lost its identity, were faded and greasy, 
and it would seem that they had worn no others for 
years. The old negress had a disconsolate but deter- 
mined look, and pressed on perseveringly with her 
burden. 

We realize more fully the grandeur of this great raid. 
All the principal railroads of the Confederacy will be 
rendered useless during the remainder of the war. IVe 
are fighting railroads ! When these are thoroughly de- 
stroyed, the rebel army will be in a sorry condition to 
oppose us. 



120 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

Friday, Dec. 2d. 
How ridiculous to write December above these lines ! 
The sun's rays are intensely warm, and the sky has not 
the appearance of our Northern winter sky. 

****** 

Our brigade is in the rear of the column, and we are 
therefore in close proximity to the contrabands who fol- 
low us.- When we halt they continue on, in order to be 
more surely protected by our arms. A squad of six 
women, -ten or twelve children and one man has just 
passed. They have the squalid and folorn appearance 
common to the fugitives from this part of the South. 
* * * * * * 

1 1 o'clock p. M. — At length we are ready to go to bed. 
Marched fourteen miles, and camped long after dark. 

Saturday, Dec. 3d. 

"We have halted for dinner five miles west of Millen. 
Moved quite early, but have marched slowly. The 
country is very sandy and very swampy. 

To-day, for the first time, we have seen cypress 
swamps. These are so full of cypress trees that they 
seem almost impenetrable. In the vicinity of these 
swamps, Spanish moss is very abundant. Those who 
have never seen it may realize what its appearance is 
from such an illustration as this : Imagine a tree that 
has all of its limbs draped with long, wavy tufts of flax, 
ready for the , spinning- wheeL These tufts hang very 
straight when not stirred by the breeze, and beautifully 
fringe the limbs from which they depend. This moss is 
much used in the upholstery business. 

The pine groves through which we are passing are 
more beautiful than any we have heretofore seen. Lau- 
rel and live oak are very common. 

We passed a mill pond to-day which formed a pretty 
picture. The pond was surrounded with cypress trees, 
which were all heavily draped with moss, and the edges 
of the pond were full of water lilies. The old mill with 
its waterfall made the picture complete. 

We passed near the ground where the Union prison- 
ers have been confined, a few miles from Millen. Those 
who visited the spot state that it was a wretched prison. 



A PAINFUL ILLUSION. 121 

The only houses the prisoners had were made of sod, 
and were not more than two or three feet high. The 
remains of Union prisoners were found there unburied. 
The prisoners were hastily removed from the place very 
recently. 

We crossed the remains of the Savannah and Augusta 
Railroad. Several brigades have been at work destroy- 
ing it, and many miles of it have been rendered useless. 

Marched fifteen miles, leaving Millen to the right, and 
camping five miles east of the railroad. 

The 15th and 17th corps have been marching on 
parallel roads a few miles south of us. We have as yet 
met with no serious opposition. Kilpatrick had a fight 
the other day, the particulars of which we have not yet 
learned. Aside from this there has only been occasional 
skirmishing. 

Sunday, Dec. 4th. 

Marched ten miles through a swampy region. Nothing 
of material interest to chronicle. 

Monday, Dec. 5th. 

Still among the .swamps ! Camp this evening seven 
miles from our camp of last night. The Savannah River 
at the nearest point is about twelve miles distant. The 
enemy skirmished Avith our advance this morning, but 
made no stubborn resistance. 

The country through which we pass is terribly 
scourged. We can hardly convey an idea of the visible 
effects of this stupendous raid. At times the Avhole cir- 
cle of the horizon is dark with the smoke that arises 
from fires which are far away from our own column. 
During several days past the grass has been burning in 
the woods, and everything combustible is in a blaze. 
Seen far in advance at night, these fires often lead the 
weary soldiers to believe that they are approaching 
camp, and they press on with renewed vigor, only to be 
deceived, and to discover other fires still farther ahead. 
The dead pine trees often catch fire, and the creeping, 
writhing flames ascend from their base to the topmost 
branches. They may be seen miles away. These scenes 
are indelibly impressed upon the mind. Boys who are 



122 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

with US will one day take their grand-children upon their 
knees, and tell them of these strange, wild scenes ; and 
as they tell them they will vainly endeavor to repress the 
tears which such memories, Avith all their glowing associ- 
ations, cannot fail to bring. 

The face of the country since we left Stone Mountain, 
near Atlanta, has been uniformly level. We see no 
hills — simply elevations. A kind of tough, wird* grass, 
such as is common on bottom lands in Illinois, grows 
quite heavily here, and forms so thick a coating that we 
have soft beds, ready-made when we camp. 

Tuesday, Dec. 6th. 
We are not more than thirty-five miles from Savannah. 
Have been marching parallel with the river, and camp 
ten miles northwest of Springfield. The rebels endeav- 
ored to impede our progress by felling trees across the 
road. The obstructions were easily removed or evaded. 

Wednesday, Dec. 7th. 

The 102d has been in advance of the Corps to-day, 
and with the other regiments of the brigade, has just en- 
tered the town of Springfield. A company has been de- 
tailed as provost guard, and is guarding the houses of 
citizens. But alas, for these over prudent citizens ! They 
buried their household goods in grounds adjoining their 
houses, and the soldiers have discovered them. An 
almost endless variety of articles have been exhumed. 
Some are bringing away clothing, others blankets, others 
fine dishes, silver spoons, etc. One man has just passed 
us dressed as a lady, only his toilet was rather rudely 

made. 

****** 

We camp to-night in Springfield, which is the coimty 
seat of Efiingham county. It is in a swamj) country, and 
is so old and moss-grown that it appears to be a product 
of the swamps. There are several churches in the place, 
all of a rude style. 

This afternoon we found the road obstructed with 
fallen trees at a point where it crossed a swamp. 
The rebels had worked very hard, and had thrown a 



EXECUTION OF A LOYAL CITIZEN. 123 

great many trees across the road. They nndonbteclly 
supposed we would find the difhculty almost insm-- 
mountable. Well, what did we do? Why, simply 
marched aroiind the obstructions ! It is true, we found 
the new road a very rough one ; but the general delay 
caused by the prodigious efforts of the enemy will not 
fulfill their exj)ectations. The tide of Yankees rolls 
oceanward, and will hardly be stayed by anything that 
stands in the Avay. 

Tuesday, Dec. 8th. 
We write this at 7 o'clock p. m., by the light of burning 
buildings. We are about to resume the march. 
* * * * * * 

Midnight. — Still on the road ! Swamps impede our 
progress. Heavy canonading is heard in the direction 
of the river. 

A' Springfield negro who accompanies us has given 
us a full account of a case of hanging which took place 
in Springfield on the 11th day of July, 1861. On that 
day, a prominent citizen, named Brad. Jones, was taken 
by a mob composed of his fellow citizens, and was 
hanged by the neck until dead. His crime was loyalty 
to the Union ! We were informed that our regiment 
camped near the spot where he was executed. His aged 
mother still resides in Springfield. He was her only 
son, and, it is said, was a good man. We learned these 
facts after leaving Springfield. The torch did not do its 
perfect work there. 

Friday, Dec. 9th. 

It is now almost midnight again, and we have been 
constantly on the road since yesterday evening, and 
have had no sleep since that time. Have marched six- 
teen miles since leaving Springfield. 

Saturday, Dec. 10th. 
Were in motion again by daylight this morning. 
Have marched nine miles, and halted four and a half 
miles from Savannah. The rebels are in line of battle 
immediately in front. Skirmishing is going on quite 
lively, farther to the right, and there is considerable ar- 
tillery firing — the old familiar sounds again ! 



124 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

"We have omitted to mention that the advance of our 
corps captured two small earthworks yesterday. They 
are located about three miles north of the railroad, and 
were defended by about 400 men, with two or three 
pieces of artillery. They fired a few shots, skirmished a 
little, and then skedaddled. 

We camp to-night in line of battle. {End of the 
Diary.) 



Our " siege of Savannah" lasted ten days. The per- 
manent line of battle was established on the 11th of the 
month. No approaches were made after that time, until 
the rebel line was abandoned. The cannonading on the 
part of the enemy was much of the time heavy but did 
little damage. The skirmishers were close together and 
kept up a lively contest. 

On the 15th of the month we received official notice 
of the capture of Fort McAllister, and consequent open- 
ing of communication with the Federal fleet. 

The celebrated swamp bridge was commenced on the 
13th. This bridge was designed to span a wide, deep 
swamp which for some distance separated the opposing 
armies. The work was prosecuted at night, and often 
under a heavy fire of artillery, the enemy throwing 
grapes hot and shells. The water was from two to four 
feet deep, and the bottom in many places was composed 
of loose black mud, which seemed to extend downwards 
ad infinitum. Working under fire, and floundering 
around in the mud, the fatigue parties had an unenviable 
task to perform. 

It seemed absurd to suppose that a column moving by 
the flank across a narrow bridge, could make a success- 
.ful assault on the enemy's works. Daily the question 
was discussed in camp, and nocturnally the work pro- 
gressed. Fortunately the bridge was never used. 

There, as at other places, the opposing pickets some- 
times became communicative. Captain Merritt, in his 
diary, reports the following colloquy between a Union 
and a rebel picket, about tlie time the work on the bridge 
was progressing. 

The rebel commenced thus : " O ! Yanks, where do 
your rations come from ? 



THE SWAMP BRIDGE. 125 

Federal. From Fort McAllister. Who runs the rice 
mills oil the river ? 

liehel. (Dodges the question.) Who was elected 
President ? 

Federal. Lincoln. 

liehel. Hurrah ! for JeiF. Davis. 

Federal. We have a rope to hang him. 

Fehel. Come over. 

Federcd. Can't get over. 

Hehel. Come over on the neio bridge you are building 
across the swamp ! 

The firing of a big rebel gun at that instant interrupted 
the conversation and it was not immediately resumed. 

Our rations during those ten days consisted mainly of 
rice. Immense quantities of this cereal were in store 
near the river and on the islands. In a brief space of 
time the rice mills were all at work, and the negroes, 
men, women and children, were hulling rice with mortar 
and pestle. If all other resources had failed, the army 
could have been subsisted on rice for an indefinite 
length of time. As it was we had rice for breakfast, 
rice for dinner, rice for supper, prepared in all conceiva- 
ble styles. It was cheap living, and rather a light diet. 

The scene at the rice mills on the river banks was one 
of the greatest activity. Heavy details of soldiers were 
• busy running the mills, day and night. Teams loaded 
with rice, or rice straw, were constantly coming and go- 
ing. But the most grotesque feature of the scene was 
that in which the African figured. Every shade, every 
caste, every size ; all varieties of form and physiognomy 
were' there represented — the handsome octoroon, the 
n«^i/ra^ negro, and the uncouth, animal looking blacks 
who seemed scarcely one remove from the ourang- 
outang — all or nearly all clothed in the most wretched 
manner. Many of them used the French language and 
could not understand a word of English. 

We observed one old negress, whose features appeared 
to have been toughened by a hundred years of work and 
exposure. Her hide must have been almost bullet proof. 



126 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. USTFANTRY VOLS. 

She could " talk English" but did not know her own age. 
Crouched on the floor of her cabin, her repulsive fea- 
tures just visible above her knees, as she worked with 
mortar and pestle, she seemed to be a type of the very 
lowest form of humanity. Poor creatures, they scarcely 
realized their own Avretchedness. 

The soldiers made frequent expeditions to the islands 
in the river and occasionally crossed to the South Caro- 
lina shore. Company " I " was for a time on detached 
service seven miles up the river, on an island, running a 
rice mill. 

Running rice mills was a novel experience in the life 
of the raiders, but they were ready for anything that 
would aid the cause and gratify their epicurean appetites. 

The change from the mountain regions of Northern 
Georgia to the flat country around Savannah, was very 
striking. The weather was much of the time delightful, 
but was rendered less so by the heavy fogs which \:>Ye- 
vailed each morning. We had never seen such fogs be- 
fore. The vapor was so dense that the water would 
droj) from the trees like rain for hours every morning. 

Among other novelties in that vicinity, the huge live 
oaks attracted universal attention. These grow to a 
fabulous size, spreading their broad arms over an im- 
mense area of ground. They are usually drajied with 
Spanish moss. In those pleasant December mornings, 
standing beneath the beautifully draped evergreen 
branches of the huge oaks, while the fog wreaths could 
scarcely be distinguished from the wavy tresses of moss, 
one could hardly resist the impression that he had been 
transported into " fairy land." 

Amid so much that was novel and interesting time did 
not drag heavily as we waited there for mail and hard- 
tack. The first mail came on the l7th, bringing letters 
and newspapers. Then the soldiers were happy. Hard 
bread was received and issued on the 20th ; none had 
been issued to the men for twenty days. 

Early on the morning of Dec. 21st, we were informed 
that the rebels had abandoned their works, and that the 
2d Division of our Corps Avas in motion towards the city. 



OCCUPATION OF SxiVANNAH. 127 

Our Brigade, (except the 79th Ohio Regiment, which 
had moved to the right,) was soon on the road. At 9 
o'clock A. M., we marched into an open field a quarter of 
a mile west of the city and went into camp. The Stars 
and Stripes were then waving from the City Hall. Sa- 
vannah, with all its rich stores, was in the hands of the 
Federal army. 



128 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTKY VOLS. 



CHAPTER X. 

A Looh Nortliward. The sliort rest at Savannah. 
Crossing the Savannah Hlver. Cheves'' Farm. Har- 
dee Farm. Hardeeville. Mobertsville. The March 

THROUGH THE CaROLIIJ^AS. 

As the Federal picket paced to and fro on the South 
bank of the Savannah River, his eye often wandered 
northward, across the wide stream to the dark woods of 
South Carolina. 

" When we move again let us go into South Carolina." 
This sentiment pervaded all hearts, and the wish ex- 
j)ressed on every hand was soon to be realized. 

Our stay at Savannah was even more brief than we 
had anticipated. While there Colonel Smith obtained a 
leave of absence with permission to visit his home. The 
Colonel had won golden opinions as a brigade com- 
mander. Colonel H. Case, of the 129th Illinois Regi- 
ment, succeeded him in command of the Brigade. At 
Savannah Captain H. H. Clay was mustered in as Major. 

Regular camps were then laid out, and Jjie men Avorked 
busily from the 21st to the 31st of the month construct- 
ing board quarters. A grand review of the army by 
General Sherman took place while there. The 20th 
Corps Avas reviewed on the 30th of the month. Next 
day the 3d Division was put in motion to cross the river. 
We left our little village of newly finished huts at day- 
light — 1st Brigade in advance — 102d in advance of the 
Brigade. Crossed on a pontoon bridge to Hutchinson's 
Island. This island is several miles in length, and from 
a mile to a mile and a half in breadth. It is barely above 
water Avlien tlie tide is out. Embankments thrown up 
for the purpose prevent the overflow of the island. It 
is Avell cultivated and produces immense quantities of 



CROSSING THE SAVANNAH EIVEE. 129 

rice. By a system of canals with locks, it is overflowed 
at certain periods for the benefit of the growing crop. 
The canals traverse the island from one channel of the 
river to the other, and when the tide was in, the water in 
them was much hi^jher than the surface of the island. 

On the embankment of one of these canals we marched 
to the second channel. There the rebel pickets on the 
South Carolina shore opened fire upon us. Artillery 
was brought up, and by several well directed shots the 
enemy was driven away. One man in the Regiment 
was slightly wounded. Efibrts were being made to lay 
a pontoon bridge. Companies A and F were sent across 
in small boats to an island in the channel, to keep back 
the enemy's skirmishers while the work on the bridge 
progressed. It was " a cold, misty, rainy day." In the 
afternoon the wind arose and the channel became so 
rough that it was impossible to continue the work of lay- 
ing down pontoons. It was diflicult and dangerous to 
communicate with the companies on the little island. 
This was done, however, by Captain T. H. Andrews and 
George Dew, (" the sharpshooter.") The wind Avas blow- 
ing at the time, most fiercely and the white caps were 
rolling magnificently. Their frail boat was in imminent 
danger of being swamj^ed, but they managed it skilfully 
and crossed safely. 

Late in the afternoon the 102d, except the tAVO compa- 
nies on the little island, Avas marched back to the Savan- 
nah landing. There Ave boarded the steamer Black Dia- 
mond, and AA'^ent doAAn the riA^er Avith the intention o^ 
flanking the islan'd and eflecting a landing on the Caro- 
lina shore. As Ave turned the lower point of the island 
and began to moA^e up toAvards the channel north of it, ^ 
the rebel caA''alry pickets could be seen on shore skedad- 
dling in fine style. But A\^e AA^ere again thwarted in our 
purpose. The tide being out, the pilot said he Avas 
afraid to attempt the passage of a bar near the point of 
the island. It Avas finally arranged that the vessel 
should steam back to the Avharf and make another at- 
tempt at high tide next morning — or rather next year ! 

The CA^ening of the 31st of December, 1864, Avas very 
cold at Savannah — cold at least for that region. Ice 
formed during the night a half inch in thickness. 



130 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

On that miserable little boat, nearly destitute of ra- 
tions, shivering with cold, we passed the closing hours 
of the year 1864, and witnessed the dawn of the new 
year. The men were stowed away in every nook and 
corner of the vessel ; as many as possible crowded about 
the boiler works. 

Next morning, the VOth Indiana joined us on the boat, 
and by noon a landing on the opposite shore was eliected 
without opposition. 

We marched the same evening, five miles out, to 
Cheves' Farm, crossing the bottom land north of the 
river. This loAvland is also below tide water, and like 
Hutchinson's Island, is cultivated by the aid of embank- 
ments, canals, &g. It extends nearly five miles back 
from the river. 

The rebels were near by, and had been busy near 
Cheves' Farm felling trees to obstruct our progress. 
Their labors subsequently occasioned some heavy fatigue 
work, but the road was cleared as soon as the army was 
ready to proceed beyond that point. 

We camped that evening (Jan. 1st) where the timber 
was principally pine — which, in its green state, makes 
very poor fire-wood. The night was cold ; the men had 
sufi'ered during the previous night, and were therefore 
more determined to make themselves comfortable. It 
did not take them long to decide hoio this should be 
.accomplished — the]/ were in /South Carolina ! 

There were several unoccupied houses and barns near 
by, and we had been in camp but a few moments when 
the work of demolition commenced. The entire brigade 
was represented in the work of destruction. The crash- 
ing of falling timbers, the ripping loose of the siding, 
and the general clatter of hammers made such an uproar 
that some of the men who had lain down to sleep actually 
thought the enemy was making an attack. 

Our camp was on the premises of Hon. Langdon 
Cheves — once a prominent South Carolina secessionist. 
While we were in the vicinity, his home was used for 
Division headquarters. Among his papers were numer- 
ous printed copies of a speech made by him at Nashville, 

J the year 1850. 



DESTEUCTION OF VACANT BUILDINGS. 131 

Speaking then of the course the Yankees would pur- 
sue, in case the South seceded, he said : 

" Will they invade us — where is their army ?" 

It is enough to say that we were then encamped upon 
his premises ; but ah ! thought we, where is Mr. Cheves ? 
We were informed that he fell in battle at Charleston, 
the victim of his own false teachings. 

There was much beautiful shrubbery in the grounds 
adjoining his residence. But while we were there every- 
thing about his once peaceful home was rapidly going to 
destruction. 

We moved on the 4th to a new camp on the Hardee 
Farm, a mile north of Cheves' Farm. The camp was 
established in rear of some grass-grown fortifications — 
" said to have been constructed by the rebels in 1862, at 
a time when Butler was makins; a demonstration on the 
coast." 

At that place another dash was made on vacant build- 
ings. The men had scarcely broken ranks, when the 
click of a solitary hammer was heard ; it was quickly 
follo^A'ed by others, and soon dozens were at work, 
creating a perfect bedlam, — hack^ bang, I'ip, rattle, 
s(2ueaJt', crash, — and the boards flew and the beams fell 
faster than they were ever made to fly or fall by any 
Hook & Ladder company. Men were all over and all 
through the houses, perfectly reckless of flying boards 
and falling timbers. At lengtli they commenced cutting 
the corner posts of one of the buildings. Soon it began 
to totter. The men were on tip-toe. A few more strokes 
of the axe were suflicient, and down came the structure, 
raising a cloud of dust. There was a yell, a hlind rush 
and a scramble. A few moments sufticed to remoA^ e the 
last stick of timber, leaving the ground ready for the 
plow. 

At the Hardee Farm we remained until the l7th of 
January. As usual much labor was expended in con- 
structing little board huts. Fatigue duty was then quite 
heavy. A great deal of " corduroy " road was built 
across the bottom land between the camp and the river. 



132 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFAJfTRY VOLS. 

The enemy hovered near, constantly watchmg our 
movements. In one or two reconnoisances made at that 
time, sharp skirmishes took place, but none of our men 
were hurt. While encamped there, large quantities of 
fresh oysters w^ere obtained from an oyster island at the 
mouth of the Savannah River. Those who participated 
in the oyster expeditions had rare sport ; a good ride and 
a general good time. 

We abandoned the camp at Hardee Farm on the 17th 
of Jan., and marched ten miles to Hardee ville, a little 
town on the Charleston and Savannah railroad. Camped 
at two o'clock p. M. 

Again the work of destroying buildings commenced, 
Among others, a large beautiful church was attacked 
Men of various regiments were engaged in the work. 
First the pulpit and seats were torn out, then the siding 
and the blinds were ripped off. Many axes were at 
work. The corner posts were cut, the building tottered, 
the beautiful spire, up among the green trees, leaned for 
a time several degrees out of the perpendicular, vibrating 
to and fro. A tree that stood in the way ^vsiS cut. By 
the use of long poles the men increased the vibratory 
motion of the building, and soon, with a screeching groan 
the spire sunk down amidst the timbers which gave way 
beneath, and as the structure became a pile of rubbish, 
some of the most Avicked of the raiders yelled out: 
" There goes your d d old gospel shop." 

Next day scarcely a vestige of the church was visible. 

It was barbarous, yet it verified the words of the Bible : 
— " I^or they have sown the vnnd and they shall reap the 
whirholndy 

While at Hardeeville, the weather w^as wretchedly 
bad. Once more the men constructed small houses, only 
to leave them when fairly finished. 

The VOth Ohio Regiment returned to the brigade on 
the 18th of February. 

Forage in that region was very scarce. The men 
scouted far away from the camp, and obtained a few 
yams and small quantities of meat. Rice — our staff of 
life — was found in abundance. 



Sherman's army again lost in dixie. 133 

As soon as we were fairly in South Carolina, the 
citizens commenced burying their property. One old 
man had buried his treasure beneath the roots of an old 
tree near our camp. Becoming fearful that the paying 
Yankees would discover it, he obtained permission ot 
the military authorities to dig it up. It was buried in 
an earthen jar, and amounted to over two thousand dol- 
h\rs in gold and silver. 

The troops were at length ordered to be in readiness 
to move at seven o'clock on the morning of the 29th. 
Early in the morning the board quarters were fired, and 
as the air was very cold, the men gathered about the fires 
in groups, awaiting the command to fall in. When the 
order came they marched cheerfully away from their 
burning village — the third little village of the kind, built 
and abandoned subsequent to the occupation of Savan- 
nah. Marched eighteen miles in the direction of Kobert- 
ville. Camped in a plowed field. Resumed the march 
next morning and by noon reached the vicinity of Robert- 
ville, four miles east of Sister's Ferry, on the Savannah 
river. 

Remained in camp at Robertvllle during the 31st of 
Jan., and the 1st of February. 

Up to that time the army had been " getting into posi- 
tion " to commence the raid. Irregular communication 
had been kept up with the outer world. Our supply of 
rations was there slightly increased, letters were sent 
out, and there on the 2d of February we abandoned com- 
munication and " swung loose." Sherman's grand army 
beino; ao^ain " lost in Dixie." 

We soon found rebels. Our brigade was m the 
advance. The 105th 111. Regiment in the advance of the 
brigade. We were marching in the direction of Law- 
tonville. About a mile from the town, the skirmishers 
from the "lOoth" became engaged with the enemy, 
driving the rebels slowly to a strong position in thick 
woods at the edge of a swamp. Sharp firing then com- 
menced, the rebels blazing away from behind trees and 
logs, while many of the " 105th" boys stood up in the 
road without any protection, firing rapidly, round after 
round, at the concealed foe. But the rebels were not 
disposed to give back. The YOtli Indiana-and 102d 111. 

8 



134 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. IXFANTKY VOLS. 

were deployed in line of battle in rear of the lOoth. The 
'79th Ohio, and the 129th 111., were ordered to make a 
detour to the left. Other troops came up and deployed 
in line of battle on our left. Artillery was brought 
up, and a number of shells were thrown with good effect. 
The enemy kept up a galling fire, killing one man 
instantly in our regiment and wounding two others — 
one of them mortally. We were then in line of battle, 
partially under cover of a hill. At length their fire 
ceased in front, and an advance was made, but the 
enemy had abandoned the position. The tiank move- 
ment made by the " 79th " and " 129th" — and most bril- 
liantly executed — had compelled them to " get up and 
travel." 

It was one of Sherman's battles in miniature. The dis- 
tinctive features of his strategy Avere well illustrated in 
the movements of the " 1st Brigade." 

Part of the brigade entered Lav»^tonville that evening, 
biit being in an isolated position the force was withdrawn. 
We camped near the enemy's vacated line. 

Resumed the march next mornino- movino; on the 
Barnwell road. It was a lovely morning. We passed 
through some beautiful country. A half mile from Law- 
tonville we passed a charming palatial residence. The 
grounds were ornamented in the finest style, with a rich 
A^ariety of shrubbery. The house Avas magnificently 
furnished. The richest of carpets covered the Hoors ; 
splendidly bound books ornamented the library ; a sweet- 
toned piano Avas in the parlor. The property belonged 
to a rebel officer, and had but recently been used by 
Gen. Wheeler for headquarters. In accordance Avith 
orders receiA^ed /"rem a proper source^ the building Avas 
burned. 

A number of similar dAvellings Avere burned during the 
day, in each case " according to orders." Forage Avas 
becoming more abundant. We marched at half past 
scA^en A. M., February 4th, folloAving a by-road. At 
Smyrna Church passed into a public rond Avhich led to 
Allendale, and thence to BaruAvell C. H. In the after- 
noon Ave passed a beautilul lake, bearing the outlandish 



THE SWAMPS OF THE SA.LKEHATCHIE. 135 

name — " Swallow Savannah." The lake is seven miles 
in circumference and is bordered with cypress trees. 
We camped that evening two miles from Allendale. 

Next morning, advanced on the Barnwell road about 
five miles, then turned to the right and moved in the 
direction of Beaufort Bridge. Camped that evening 
near Salkehatchie swamp through which a tributary of 
the Conbahee river runs. Beaufort bridge, previous to 
our arrival, spanned the stream, but the rebels had par- 
tially destroyed it, and the troops were delayed several 
hours. The position had been strongly fortified. It 
would have been impossible to drive the enemy from 
their earthworks by approaching along the narrow cause- 
way across' the swamp, and over the bridge. But the 
position was turned, or outflanked by troops operating 
on other roads, and the rebels were compelled to retire 
without realizing any benefit from their naturally impreg- 
nable position. 

Marched at five o'clock, the morning of the 6th. 
Crossed the bridge, turned to the lel"t, and moved in the 
direction of the Charleston and Auo-usta railroad. 

Foraging operations grew more extensive Avith each 
succeeding day. The four weeks experience in Georgia 
had prepared the men for more desperate work in South 
Carolina. Now they struck boldly out, from ten to 
twenty miles from the column. The whole country was 
alive with men vrho made foraging their sole business. 
Ofiicers were sent out with detachments, but hundreds 
were constantly out independent of all control. Those 
who went out with oflicers usually became separated 
from them in a short time. Many roamed through the 
country solely to plunder, and in their nefarious work 
threw off" all restraint — fearing neither God nor man — 
nor his mythical majesty, the Devil. 

On the right, on the left, and in front, dark columns of 
smoke rolled up, as the great army, with its flankers, the 
foragers, pressed forward. 

We camped, the evening of the -^th near Little Salke- 
liatchie, which is also a tributary of the Combahee river. 

Late in the evening, Feb. 7th, the brigade reached the 
Charleston and Auo-usta railroad, at Graham Station. A 



136 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

cold chilling rain had been falling since morning, render- 
ing the march very disagreeable. The troops moved 
slowly, crossed several swamps, built a number of 
bridges and made considerable corduroy road. 

On the 8th, commenced the work of destroying the 
railroad track. After tearing it up effectually three- 
fourths of a mile, we went into camp at Graham. In the 
afternoon, left knapsacks, etc., in camp and moved out 
to work on the railroad. Marched four miles ; found 
nothing to do — other troops were ahead. We were 
obliged to retrace our steps to camp. The men could 
not see the wisdom of the movement, and some of them 
swore savagely. Reaching the camp we ate a hastily 
prepared supper, then packed up and resumed the for- 
ward movement, under orders to halt where the 1st 
Division ceased destroying the road. 

" Misfortunes never come singly," says the old adage, 
and it was verified during the day's maneuvers. About 
night we took the wroncr road and marched at least a 
mile out of the w\ay. Reached camp at half-past eight 
that evening, very tired and almost suflbcated with the 
smoke of tlie burning railroad, and other burning j^rop- 
erty. Our camp was four miles, direct, from Graham. 
The night was very cold, and we slept uncomfortably. 

The work of destroying the railroad ^vas accomplished 
most efiectually. For at least three days the bulk of 
Sherman's army was thus engaged. The smoke of the 
burning ties, rising mile after mile, and mingling with 
the smoke of burning buildings, burning fences and 
burning cotton, enveloj^ed the wdiole country. 

The road was torn up by sections as the columns 
advanced. 

The brigades halted alternately to work at destroying 
the road. The following plan of operations was ob- 
served. Having stacked arms and unslung knapsacks, 
each regiment formed in line of battle opposite the track. 
Sections of the road w^ere assigned to the different com- 
panies, and at the command of the officers, the men 
advanced to the att<*t3k. Acting in concert they lifted 
the structure and tumbled it over at the side of the 
grade. The ties were then loosened and piled upon the 
grade, very much in the manner that boys construct 



A NEWLY DEVELOPED OBJECTIVE POINT. 137 

cob-liouses. The iron rails were placed upon the piles — 
the ends projecting. Fires were then kindled beneath 
them, and wlien the rails became heated to a white heat 
they were easily twisted into various shapes. 

The morning of the 9th was cold and a heavy frost 
covered the ground. We continued the march in the 
direction of Augusta. The column moved slowly, and 
whenever it halted we made ourselves comfortable by 
setting lire to the light, combustible j^ine rails at the 
roadside. Reached the dilapidated village of Blackville 
before noon. Halted in the " suburbs." Built large 
fires, but were made miserable by the all-pervading 
smoke. Momentarily expecting to move, we awaited 
orders until late in the afternoon, and then went into 
camp for the night. At Blackville we received a light 
mail. It was brought up by a brigade that abandoned 
communication a day or two after the campaign com- 
menced. 

Next morning we continued on towards Augusta. 
Worked on the railroad again, " finishing it " as far as 
the little town of Williston. It had been a pretty town, 
but did not look well amidst the smoke and dust that 
was raised by our destroying army. Camped near Wil- 
liston. 

Abandoning the railroad on the 11th, we moved 
northward — the next objective point being Columbia. 
Crossed the South Edisto that afternoon. Passed 
through a rough, hilly region. Observed several varie- 
ties of hard-wood timber. It was a pleasant change 
from the level country and pine barrens through which 
we had been so long marching. 

We went into camp the evening of the 11th on the 
south side of a small stream that empties into the North 
Edisto. Forage somewhat scarce. 

A heavy frost covered the ground on the morning of 
the 12th. The air was very cold. The enemy having 
burned the bridge across the little stream above men- 
tioned, the troops were compelled to wade it. Many of 
the small streams along the sea coast in the South are 
scarcely distinguishable at first view from swamps. 
They are literally swamp streams. 



138 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

In this case there was a great sheet of water spread 
out over swamp land, whicli was thickly grown with 
cypress trees and a maze of underbrush. The swamp 
stream was about a quarter of a mile in width and from 
one to three feet in depth, a sluggish current moving 
the waters in the centre. Some of the men stripped 
their feet and rolled up their pants to wade it ; others 
went in Avithout any preparation. All the horses that 
were tractable " carried double." 

The water was so cold that many of the soldiers be- 
came almost paralyzed. It was bitter cold work wading 
swamps in mid winter. After crossing, the troops were 
halted — large fires were built of rails, and an hour was 
passed in drying oflf. 

Crossed Goodland Swamp Creek during the day, and 
went into camp a half mile south of the North Edisto. 
The 2d Division of our Corps met with strong opposi- 
tion at the river, but effected a crossing after losing 
seA'eral men. 

The 3d Division was in the advance next day — Febru- 
ary 13th. The 1st Brigade being in advance of the Di- 
vision, and the VOth Indiana in advance of the Brigade. 
"We crossed the river on a temporary bridge. The 
enemy hovered near in front and did not drive well. 
SI irmishers from the 7 0th Indiana were deployed and 
they exchanged shots with the enemy ax intervals until 
the column halted eight miles from the river. 

A squad of foragers from the " TOth " Avas surprised 
and completely routed about the time we went into 
camp. They had ventured too far to the front and were 
attacked by a force of rebel cavalry. In the affair the 
detachment lost seven men, wounded and missing. A 
number of horses and mules fell into the hands of the 
enemy. Some of the foragers who escaped came in 
badly demoralized — minus hats, guns, accoutrements and 
horses. The " 70tli " then marched out to retaliate, but 
could not find the enemy. 

We remained in camp until 10 o'clock a.m. of the 14th. 
Moved then on the Columbia road, until we reached a 
road leading to Lexington C. II. Five miles out on that 
road at a point where the Columbia and Augusta wagon 
road crosses it, the troops went into camp. 



A DAY WITH THE FORAGERS. 139 

The art of foraging liad by this tune become 
thoroughly understood. Forage was yet abundant. Had 
it been otherwise the skill of the foragers would, in a 
measure, have made up all deficiencies. Let me diverge 
here and sketch a day with the foragers. 

As usual the camp is aroused long before daylight. In 
the gray dawn the foragers, all mounted, form in line 
and move off — we will suppose towards the right. Fol- 
lowing strange roads, guided sometimes by the compass, 
sometimes by the sun, and sometimes " going it blind," 
they dash away from the main column — over high hills, 
across deep hollows, fording deep and rapid streams, 
riding on through the wilderness of pines, until at length 
a farm house is descried. Then they " go for it." AYho 
will be first ? The rowels sink deep into the flanks of 
the horses — and mules. Away they go — neck and neck. 
"Go it, old barebones;" "go it, donkeys;" and like wild 
Arabs the party approaches the dwelling — but hold! 
there are blue coats all over the premises — " what is the 
use of riding so hard." The speed is slackened. The 
party rides by, determined to be first at the next planta- 
tion. On through the woods, mile after mile, they go — 
passing insignificant houses with the remark, " O, they're 
poor folks — theyVe got nothing there." Finally a large 
rich looking plantation is discovered. Again they are on 
the gallop — they dash up to the gate — throw it open. 
Old men and terror-stricken women come to the door. 
The entire party rides in at the gate. In an instant they 
have dismounted. Some of them go for the meat house, 
others for the pantry, and others rush into the parlor. 
A squad attacks the bee-hives. " Knock off the top," — 
" get water and drown them," — " smoke them," any way 
to get the honey," — thus they talk and thus they act. 
^rcr a swarm of bees fills the atmosphere. The men 
&.re no more afraid of them than they are of bullets, but 
run to and fro among them with choice honey trickling 
from their fingers. A small squad is at work at the yam 
hills. The meat is brought out — choice hams ; they will 
have no other. The flour barrels are soon emptied ; the 
meal is gobbled up, and the molasses runnhig into the 
canteens. One or two of the sharpest take a darkey to 



140 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. IXFANTRY VOLS. 

one side, quiz him, tlireaten him, show him a revolver ; 
he tells thera something — no matter what — they are off. 
In a neigl^boring swamp, amid the thick jungle, on a 
piece of dry ground that is surrounded on all sides hy -^ 
water, a number of fine horses and mules are found — sad- %, 
dies and briclles too. They are quickly " rigged." The ^ 
captors gallop back to the farm house. Those who re- 
mained there have loaded their animals with a miscella- 
neous assortment of forage. There is more than they 
can conveniently carry. What shall be done? The "old 
gentleman " has a nice carriage in his carriage-house, 
and the captured horses, two of them, can draw it — cer- 
tainly — not another Avord parleying — they do not speak, 
but act. The carriage is brought out — if harness are 
lacking they are supplied by Yankee ingenuity. Old 
straps, old ropes, old tugs are brought together in the 
semblance of harness. The vehicle is then loaded down 
until the spj ings click together. MeauAvliile the house 
has been thoroughly pillaged. There is a class of pil- 
lagers as well as a class of foragers at work. Cellars, 
parlor, chamber, garret, all have been ransacked. Things 
are in the most perfect, chaotic confusion. Other fora- 
gers have arrived — other pillagers also. Drawers are 
thrown upon the floor — contents turned out. Trunks are 
broken open. Clothing and other valuables taken. Men 
of various brigades, divisions and corps are engaged in 
the despicable work. Who can control them ? It is a 
whirlwind let loose, and must sweep on with all its hor- 
rors. " Does the old gentleman protest?" Most assur- 
redly he does, and the old lady, and the pretty young 
girls, with tears in their eyes, implore protection. As 
well address their words to the idle winds. The forag- 
ers must have sometlnng to eat; the army must live by 
foraging. They feel for the poor and sometimes spare 
them, but from the wealthy they take without stint. 
And the pillagers show no compunctions of conscience. 
With a look of stolid indifl:erence, peculiar to the har- 
dened criminal, they prosecute their abominable Avork 
amid the tears and vain entreaties of the helpless 
citizens. 

At length our foragers set out for camp — perhaps 
passing another house, where they load an old cart or 



PJREPARATIOXS FOK A FIGHT. I4l 

buggy with more provisions. Reaching camp just after 
dark, the forage is soon distributed, and the soldiers are 
happy over many good things to eat. 

And this is but one day out of many long weeks of 
such work; scarcely a house escaping the visitation, as 
the great army swept onward over a tract of country at 
least fifty miles in breadth. 

And we have only looked at the surface ; at what was 
done when numbers of the foragers and pillagers were 
congregated. We may well imagine that a darker 
chapter could be written of the work of marauders, who, 
oanding together for the purpose of pillaging and com- 
mitting other crimes, visited the lonely homes of de- 
fenseless women and children, f\xr away from the march- 
ing columns. God pity any people that are subjected 
to tlie tender mercies of a raiding army. 

The foragers became every day more daring, and 
their services were of great value in a strategic point of 
view. By their eccentric maneuvres the movements of 
the main armies were rendered inexplicable to the 
enemy. 

Amono; the reofular forasrers were many of the most 
daring and devoted men in the army. In the saddle 
they were at home. A little incident which occurred 
about the time of v.diich I write will illustrate tlie 
spirit of these mad-caps. Far away from the main 
column a party of five foragers descried thirteen rebels, 
well mounted and armed. Four of the foragers were 
unarmed, but they made a sudden dash upon the rebels, 
took them by surprise and completely routed them; cap- 
turing six horses. 

The 15th of February we marched twelve miles 
through a rough country — forage not abundant. Chilly, 
damp weather. The leading division skirmished heavily 
with the enemy. Went into camp two miles south of 
Lexington, and about nine miles from Columbia. An 
other day would dete mine whether the enemy intended 
to fight for Columbia. 

E^•e]■y preparation was made on the morning of the 
16tli for a fight. Xon-combattants were sent to the rear. 
The trains were halted, artillery and ambulances were 



142 HISTORY OF THE 102d ill. ixfantkt vols. 

O'clered forward, nd the gentry with stretchers, who 
were more obnoxious to our liner sensibilities than the 
Tillage sexton could ever be, were at hand. They were 
a worthy and useful class to be sure, but their discolored 
stretchers were very suggestive of disagreeable reflec- 
tions. Leavina; Lexing-ton to the lef , we crossed the 
newly constructed grade of the projected Columbia and 
Augusta railroad, and advanced slowly towards Co- 
lumbia. 

Xo skirmishing ahead. Surely they will not yield the 
city witho t a struggle. At length we approach th 
summit of a hill not more than two and a half miles 
from the city. At the summit there is a farm house and 
a fence. From that point something ext aordinary is 
visible. The men far in the rear ar : sure of this, for 
thos'^ in front are climbnig the f^nce in regular succes- 
sion to '' take a lool ." In our tu.n we do the same, 
and beyond the Congaree river behold the famed city of 
Columbia — the cradle of secession. 

Then we recollected the occasi. n when, four years 
prei ious, the words flashed over the wires to our North- 
ern homes, " South Carolina has seceded,'''' — and people 
! miled incredulously. But the issue was real, and at the 
opening of the y ar 1 865, Sherman's grand army carried 
the Stars an Stripes to the gates of Columbia, with a 
protest which in words simply meant " South Carolina 
cannot secede.'''' It was a delicate reproof that reached 
the ears of the Columbians that evening, when the field 
bands, with grand enthusiasm, played " Hail Cohiinbia, 
happy lane !" 

The enemy had crossed to the north bank of the 
stream and still occupied the city, but not in force. 
Skirmishers from the ri hi wing of the army were ex- 
chan ing shots wit . th rebel pickets, and there was 
light artill ry firing. We camped i:. line of battle abi ut 
two m les from the city. 

In that po ition we remained until near noon, Febru- 
ary IV th ; t en mai'ched to the rear and right, under or 
ders to cross Saluda and Broad rivers, and continue 
northward towards Winnsboro. 



THE RAID HARDLY COMMEXCED. 143 

The day's march was most disagreeable. Aliigh wind 
was b'owmor; the w ods were evervwliere on fire. Pine 
knots and the scarred surface of tl e turpentine trees 
burned brghtly and sent up their bhickening soot, and 
the pine rail fences were all in a blaze. It was then the 
universal prayer — " O ! for one breath of pure air !" 
Nei r th Saluda river the Brigade was sent out on the 
Lexington road and ordered to be on the alert for Cheat- 
hani''s forces, which were reported t > be harrassin the 
rear of Kilpatrick's cavalry, which was tlien coniin in. 
As patiently as we could, ga ping in the thick smoke for 
the breath of 1 fe, we awaited further developments. No 
enemy came. About night, moved a sho t distance to- 
wards the river and went into camp. 

Immense wagon trains were corralled near by. Our 
turn to cross the river would come when they had all 
passed over. All night they ke})t movin . By .oon 
next day, (Feb. 18th,) we were enabled to cross. 

The Saluda is a pretty little stream, one hundred and 
twenty-live yards wide, and has a swift current. A 
short distance above Columbia it unites with Broad 
riA^er, forming the Congaree. The Brigade camped 
after dark at the ris^ht of the road a few miles sout- of 
Broad river. 

Moved at half past six on the morning of t e 19th; 
proceeded five miles, then halted and relieved a Division 
of the 14th Corps, whiJi was guarding approaches to 
the pontoon bridge across Broad river. " There we went 
into camp expecting to remain all night, but an hour 
later were ordered to ' pack up and march immediately.' 
No one was in a condition to move. Some of the men 
were cooking, others washing their clothes, and many 
were out foraging. Everything was in confusion and 
everybody swore, or felt like it — but we were soon all 
ready and in motion." 

We followed a by-road to the right, and camped on 
the hills immediately south of Broad river. 

While encamped there an order was received direct- 
ing the troops to make preparations for continuing the 
campaign forty days. ^ Iready the inen had made severe 
marches. ]Many were footsore and ragged. All were 
blackened with dirt and smoke. Soap had played out. 



144 HISTOEY OF THE 102d ILL. IXFANTET YOLS. 

Those " forty days " loomed forth like a little eternity, 
but it was in accordance with the plans of our trusted 
leader, and therefore ah right. Wall tents were to be 
no longer tolerated in the army. PreYious to that 
time each regiment had been allowed three of these. 
They were then ordered to burn them, reserYing only 
the "tent flies." Brggage was again cut down. Many 
articles that liad been taken from the country, and were 
being carried along in Yiew of reaching a " water base " 
in a short time, were abandoned. Xumbers of splendidly 
bound books of the highest intrinsic Yalue Yv^ere com- 
mitted to the flames. 

In resuming the march on the 20th, it was oiir fortune 
to be again in the rear. AH day the troops and trains 
were crossing the riYcr. The Brigade was deployed in 
line of battle facing to the rear, to be in readiness for an 
attack by Cheatham's forces. 

The country in the Yicinity of Broad riYcr is rolling 
and picturesque. Between the two riYers there arc 
some fine plantations. Forage Y^as abundant. 

At dusk Y'e moYed closer to the riYer. Formed line 
as before. Again we have a tedious time of waiting. 
*' Why don't the army moYe ?" some one asks, in imita-^ 
tion of Northern croakers. Be patient — it Y'ill. 

The shadows deepen. The scene in the gloaming of 
the cYening is beautiful. Bright lights tY'inkle on the 
hills beyond the riYer. Are they camp fires ? Be pa- 
tient ; we shall see. 

At lensrth the order came to fall in. We marched 
doY^ the steep hill, across the broad and rapid riYcr, 
and halted a mile north of it, but not to go into camp. 
Again it was our business to Y^ait — ^vixit until the trains 
and troops had all passed on ahead. In the thick Y'oods 
we built fires, rolled ourselves in our blankets and slept. 
An hour and a half later the Brigade refrain, "Hail Co- 
lumbia, happy land," aroused us, and we continued on 
after the sloY'-moving cohnnn. 

A night march ! how it tries men's souls ! The pa- 
tient man of old Y'as never subjected to that terrible 
afiiiction. Let us look at the regiment on a night march. 
Tlie teams of course are stuck somcYhei-e ahead, and 
the column has for the moment halted. The pine rails 



A NIGHT MARCH. 145 

are all ablaze. Stumps and pine knots are set on fire. 
Groiii)S of sleepy soldiers arc gathered about them. 
Some have dropped do^rn and are sound asleep. 

Foricard again. Slowly the eolumn re-forms and 
moves on ; but only for a few hundi-ed yards. There is 
another dead lock. The men stand still, only stamping 
their feet to prod.ice circulation of the blood. Another 
mcve, and this time i': continues for perhaps a mile, when 
there is a brief halt ; then a move more brief, and another 
halt — and another move — the column crowding on by 
"tits and starts." What is wrong ahead? Doubtless 
the men are walking a log across some stream — passing 
in Indian file. Foot by foot we gain ground, and at 
length the little stream and the file of soldiers are de- 
veloj^ed. Thanking God that our turn has come at last, 
we cross over ni the same manner, then " lengthen our 
steps and march rapidly." No one in the way now ! 
what has become of them? Double quick — forward! 
The horses go off in a trot, and the long-drawn-out 
column closes up. Again we march regularly. TTe 
look up at the star-gemmed heavens — and wonder if 
there is war and night marches in those far-off worlds. 
Our eyes wander northward to the great dipper and the 
polar star. "K. N. W." — yes, just a little to the left of 
the great dipper — that is the direction of Jwine. All are 
asleep there. If they could know that we are marching 
at this houi- — tired, footsore, cold and sleepy, would they 
rest as easily ! Ah ! it is well — 

"Where ignorance is bliss 'twere folly to be wise." 

It is long after midnight. Some one rides towards 
the rear, and the oft-repeated question is reiterated, 
" How far is it to camp ?" " Three miles." " Three 
miles, indeed; I'll bet it's s?',r," retorts the soldier, who 
did not intend to believe the man when he asked the 
question. 

But it is only three miles. "We may get to sleep some 
yet. Away vain hope — teams are mired somewhere 
ahead, or there is another loo; to cross in Indian file. 
Slowly the column drags along. The " first famt streaks 
of dawn " light up the eastern sky. The sound of a 
distant buirle is heard. It is far ahead — and now vre 



146 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. IXFAXTRY YOLS. 

can hear the roll of drums. It is reveille in camp— no 
sleep to-night. Dny advances; the sun shoots great red 
beams up towards the zenith. We reach the camp 
where tlie advance Division had halted long before mid- 
night. There is some disappointment — some little irri- 
tation. The 1st Brigade is boisterous — the men laugh, 
cheer and yell — they will not be deprived of that privi- 
lege. The head of column is turned into an open field ; 
the regiments halt, stack arms, unsling knapsacks, and 
are allowed one hour for breakfast. 

Thus we marched, and thus perchance many solilo- 
quized during the night of February 20, 1865. 

After our hasty breakfast, February 21st, we moved 
in the direction of Winnsboro. Passed through a good 
section of country — found plenty of forage. Reached 
Winnsboro by noon. It is a beautiful town, pleasantly 
located. After dinner we marched through the town in 
review, before Generals Sherman and Slocum. Camped 
before night two miles east of Winnsboro, in a nice pine 
grove, at the right of the Rocky Mount road. 

Next day, February 22d, Ave continued on towards 
Rocky Mount ; passing in the morning through a region 
which was so rough that the foragers could scarcely get 
away from the column, or once away could hardly re- 
turn. The road wound alono- a liii2:li ridore from which 
we had a good view of the country miles away on eitlier 
hand. The scenery was beautiful, and afforded a pleas- 
ant relief from the monotony of the pine woods through 
Avhicli we had been marching. Far away, right and left, 
clouds of smoke indicated where other corps were 
moving. 

We pressed forward close upon the heels of the rebel 
cavalry, and during the day the advance guards had a 
slight skirmish Avith the enemy. About noon Butler's 
Division of rebel cavalry crossed the road not more than 
a mile ahead of us. Our foragers under Captain Wool- 
ley had a sharp skirmish A\dth a detachment of rebels 
and drove tliem. Forage Avas found in the greatest 
abundance. The men 'brought in a great A^ariety of 
edibles, including the best of hams and large quantities 
of flour. All of the teams Avere loaded, and a large 



CEOSSIXG THE CATAWBA. 147 

amount of forage was thrown away for Avant of ti-ans- 
portation. We camped before night on the west bank of 
the Catawba, at Rocky Mount — a pLace of no conse- 
quence aside from the interest which attaches to it on 
account of a figlit whicli took place there during the war 
of the Revohition. It is about eight miles above the 
celebrated Camden battle ""round. 

A few moments after our camp had been selected, 
General Sherman called at Division headquarters. While 
conversnig with General Ward, an orderly rode up v/ith 
a message announcing the fall of Charleston. After 
reading it, Sherman looked up and said : "Well, General, 
you can inscribe Charleston on your banners. It is a 
part of the programme. A skilfull surgeon may kill a 
man with the smallest needle, while another would cut 
him up with a butcher knife and then fail to kill him." 
The General tlien added that he "proposed to march his 
army through Washington in less than three months." 

Tents were put up, supper was disposed of, and many 
had gone to bed, when an order came directing us to 
move across the river — the pontoon bridge having been 
finished. Packed up and — waited. Troops were crossing 
ahead, and the column moved slowly. At midnight we 
marched down the precipitous bluff, crossed the rapid 
stream, and ascended to a level piece of ground a mde 
beyond. There we slept until daylight — then, without 
breakfast, marched three miles. Halted and went into- 
camp, at the left of the road, in thick woods. Rain com- 
menced falling during the afternoon. It rained heavily 
during the night. 

Next day, February 24th, we marched three miles 
over a corduroy road—" and still it rained." The trains 
moved with the greatest difficulty. The soil was as 
treacherous as the people of that State. The rain had 
thoroughly saturated the ground. Horsemen riding off 
the road, on ground which appeared firm, suddenly found 
themselves floundering amid quicksands. 

The morning of the 25th it was still raining. We 
were under orders to move at half past six. Tents were 
struck — the rain still pouring down. Happily for us, the 
order was countermanded. The 20th Corps was com- 
pelled to wait for the 14th Corps, which found great 



148 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

ilifficulty ill crossing tlio Catawba, then inucli swollen by 
the heavy rains. Kani conti]nied to fall during the nighi 
of the 25th. 

The 26th "svas a fair day. We moved early in the 
morning, and the right wing of the Regiment built 
" corduroy road." 

It mny intei'est those who were not there, to know 
how such roads are constructed. Usually the troops 
took rails from adjoining farms and made n perpetual 
bridge of rails. Tlie rails were placed so near together 
that the mules could walk over the road without step- 
ping between them into the mire. These roads were 
constructed very rapidly. It required but a brief s|)ace 
of time for a Brigade to " turn out " a forty acre lot — 
leaving the fence for the farmer to extract from the mud 
after the army had passed by. At times no rails could 
be obtained and young pines were cut and used instead. 

We Avent into camp before noon, at Hanging Koek — 
a place of revolutionary aiotoriety. A sharp little tight 
occurred there between the colonists and the British. 
The rock — an immense boulder — is poised on a large 
ledge of rocks at the brow of a steep hill. It is appa- 
rently so nicely balanced that it seemed dangerous to 
walk out on the overhanging edge — lest it be precipi- 
tated into the valley below. Capt. Merritt in his diary 
Avrites : " The rock is notorious as the scaflfold from 
which the British hanged six American soldiers after 
the battle near it, Aug.ls, 1780.'' 

An equally singular rock is near it ; a huge boulder 
with the lower part of the face " scooped out," forming 
a concave wall and roof of smooth stone. It has tlie 
appearance of a work of art. Its singular formation is 
attributed to the action of tires, which it is argued have 
been kindled beneath its overhanging brow, by suc- 
cessive visitors, during ages that have passed. A whole 
company could find shelter beneath the rock-roof from 
the storms. It is said the revolutionary patriots made it 
a place of frequent resort. Xear it a squad of men from 
the ]02d stood i)icket. The locality was visited by hun- 
dreds of officers and soldiers, many of whom carried 
away relics. 



CAPTURE OF THE BANK OF CAMDEX. 149 

Feb. 27th — Keraained in camp. Owing to the slow 
inovenients of the troops, forage was becoming scarce. 
The foragers vTere corapeUed to go far to the front and 
figlit for what they got. Capt AYoolley was out with the 
detachment from tlie 102d. He encountered Wheeler's 
force of cavalry ; had a sharp skirmish, and was com- 
pelled to retire. Lost two men captured. It rained 
heavily during the night of the 27th ; next day we 
marched and " corduroyed." Moved eight miles in the 
direction of Gheraw corduroying two-thirds of the entire 
d stance. Camped after dark, in the woods. Capt, 
Woolley came in with his detachment of foragers and 
gave an account of the capture of the Bank of Camden 
by his men. It occurred in this way : AVhen the detach- 
ment was far away from the main column, Jesse 
McQuade, of Co. I, and Charles llartsell of Co. E, 
espied a fresh wagon track, which led off into the woods. 
Leaving the main party they traced it into an obscure 
place where they discovered three covered wagons. 
Putting spurs to their horses they dashed up towards 
them, and when very near, were fired upon by citizen 
guards. McQuade received no less then twenty small 
shot in his shoulder, left arm and side. Hartzell 
received about a dozen in his right arm. This repulsed 
them, as both were disabled. McQuade's wounds were 
serious, and he retired a sliort distance, then becommg 
faint, slipped from his horse to the ground, where he 
remained until Hartzell brought up the main party. 
Some of the citizen guards had by this time lied to the 
woods, and those who remained surrendered without 
further opposition. The bank property consisted of four 
safes, containing about $700 in specie, |2,500, in bullion, 
and $35,000 in Confederate bonds. Also a quantity of 
silver plate, jewelry, &c. In addition to all this, three 
wagons, one buggy, one horse and twelve mules Avere 
captured. The property was turned in by Capt. Woolley 
at Corps headquarters. 

In disposing of the property Capt. Woolley adhered 
to the letter of the law as a responsible officer, but it is 
to be regretted that the brave men who were wounded 
in the affair, did not receive a portion of the money at 
least, as a reward for their daring. 



150 ' HiSTOEY OF THE 102d ill. ixfaxtry vols. 

We crossed Lyncli*'s Creek, on the 1st of March, and 
went into camp two miles north of tlie stream, at a 
point where the road forks — one leading to Charlotte, 
N. C, the other to Chesterfield. Lynch's Creek is about 
twenty yards wide. It was spanned by an excellent 
bridge, which the i-ebels for some reason, left unburned. 
A laro'c liourino' mill stood near the brido-e. The forao-ers 
had been running it for two days. They carried then* 
grists to the mill on the backs of their donkeys. 

March 2d — Advanced on the Chesterfield road. The 
foragers, during the previous day, had been in North 
Carolina, where they obtained forage in abundance. 
They struck out again in that direction. The column 
marched only ten miles, being delayed by the breaking 
down of a bridge over a small stream. 

The troops moved at 6.30 a. m., March 3d. The wea- 
ther was disagreeable and the roads in an execrable con- 
dition. Several miles of corduroy were made. Reached 
Chesterfield at 1.30 p.m., and marched through the town 
with colors flying and bands playing. The column 
passed Gen. Sherman's headquarters. The General was 
standing in front of his tent, looking as pleasant as a 
May morning, apparently not at all burdened with the 
responsibility of conducting the greatest raid on record. 
We camped a mile east of the town. 

Lieut. A. H. Trego, in his diary furnishes the follow- 
ing reminiscence of Chesterfield : 

" While passing through the town I saw one of the 
saddest and most aliecting spectacles that I have wit- 
nessed since coming into the army. In the road we met 
two women who evidently belonged to the poor white 
class. Their dresses were of home-made cloth — soiled 
and worn. They were barefoot, and apparently desti- 
tute of all clothing save their dresses and bonnets. Their 
features j^lainly indicated the marks of poverty and dis- 
tress. On the face of one there was an expression of the 
deepest grief. Upon inquiry I found that she carried a 
dead hahe in her arons. It was her own child, which 
had been dead but a short time. She had lived almost 
alone. Only her aged mother was with her. The rebels 
had conscripted her husband. She was destitute of 



EEMAKKABLE SMOKE-CLOUD. 151 

means, and was tlieretbre compelled to carry her dead 
cliild to her friends to liave it buried. She had ah-eady 
carried it three miles, and was obliged to carry i^ eight 
miles farther. If ever I felt pity and sorrow for any 
human being it was for this poor heart-broken woman. 
How little is known of the suffering among the poor 
people of the South by the loyal people of the North." 

We were informed at Chesterfield, that twenty-five 
thousand rebels awaited us beyond the Great Pedee 
River, and would dis})ute the crossing. The rebel cav.- 
alry had been acting for weeks as an advance guard for 
the Federal army — trotting ahead as some one observed, 
"to announce its coming." Some apprehensions were 
entertained that a fight would occur near the borders of 
North Carolina. But tlie enemy could not interpose a 
force sufficient to oppose the resistless tide ot blue. 
Cheraw, on the South bank of the Pedee, was captured 
on the 4th, with immense stores and many pieces of 
artillery. 

On the 4th our division made a flank movement on the 
Wadesboro road, and camped that afternoon in North 
Carolina, a mile and a half from the line, and near the 
Yadkin river — called tlie Great Pedee after it passes 
into South Carolina, probably out of regard for the sen- 
sitive feelings of that State, on the question of State 
rights. 

Sunday, March 5. Remained in camp. A beautiful 
day. 

Marched at noon the next day, down the river in the 
direction of Cheraw. A dense, dark smoke, black as if 
sent up from the heart of the bottomless pit, loomed up 
like a gathering storm-cloud away over in North Caro- 
lina. At length it hung like a pall between the earth 
and the sun, and the sun was the color of blood. At 
first we could not comprehend the cause of the immense 
smoke-cloud, but learned afterwards that it arose from 
burnino; stores of rosin. We halted near Cheraw and 
awaited our turn to cross the river — waited till alter 
dark, built fires and slept — waiting finally till near morn- 
ing. Awhile before daylight, marched through the rem- 
nant of the town. An " accidental " fire had destroyed 



152 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTEY YOLS. 

the best part of the place. In the dim light of the morn- 
ing we crossed the Great Pedee — a river that had ever 
been associated with glorions memories of the war of 
the Revolution by the daring deeds of Gen. Francis 
Marion. A few miles north of the river, at a house oif 
the road, I asked a white-haired old gentleman whether 
Gen. Marion was buried in Cheraw. I had previously 
been informed that such was the fact. " If he was, I 
didn't know it. I've never heard nothing about it," 
replied the old man, indicating profound ignorance 
of the subject of my inquiries. Truly, " A prophet is not 
without honor, save in his own house." 

The Great Pedee is a rapid stream, and had been 
recently much swollen. As we marched across the bot- 
tom land, north of the river, the trees at the roadside 
w^ere encumbered with rubbish that had lodged there 
when the stream was up. This rubbish was lodged 
several feet higher than the heads of men on horseback. 
North of the Great Pedee we entered the turpentine 
region. It is a vast wilderness of pine trees — ijust such 
as we have seen represented by a wood-cut in the school 
geographies — the woods so dense that they resemble a 
cane-brake — magnified into a forest. The trees are many 
of them clear of limbs for a hundred feet from the base, 
and straight as an arrow. The only inhabitants are the 
turpentine, tar and rosin raanufocturers. They live con- 
tentedly in their secluded homes, isolated from all the 
world, and have about as distinct ideas of the real active 
world of mankind, as we have of the mythical inhabit- 
ants of the moon. 

Great quantities of rosin were stored up in the wdder- 
ness, at different places. 

Being away from the column one day with a friend, 
an immense cloud of smoke was observed at no great 
distance ascending towards the heavens. We ap- 
l)roached the fire, and our attention was attracted to a 
r\ishing, crackling, seething sound, which mingled with 
the roar of the flames. " What was burning ?" We 
could not tell. The flames seemed to rise up from the 
surface of the ground. We drew nearer. The fire was 
in the head of a small hollow. Before the brilliant 
flames which were spreading and shooting up great 



OUR FORAGERS IN A FIGHT. 153 

tongues of fire, a boiling liquid substance, like melted 
lava, ran down the ravine on the surface of a small 
stream. " Have the Yankees set the world on lire !" 
thought we. Dismounting we procured some of the 
boiling liquid and found it was rosin. A great quantity 
was burning. Awe-stricken, we stood spell-bound for a 
time watching the magnificent column of black smoke, 
— black as blackness can be — rising and rolling into a 
thousand beautiful shapes, which seemed crystalizing 
into substantial forms in the region of the clouds. Far 
upwards in the centre of the column the flames ascended, 
and their red light was occasionally brought to view by 
the evolutions of the smoke. 

Stores of rosin consisting of hundreds of barrels were 
often burned. 

We camped the night of March 7tli, at Laurel Hill, 
eighteen miles northeast of Oheraw\ During the day, a 
number of the foragers who had remained out all night 
came in. The detachment under Lieut. T. G. Brown 
had been engaged the jjrevious day in a sharp fight with 
Wheeler's cavalry. I give Lieut. Brown's report of the 
aflair in liis ow^n words : 

"On the morning of March 6th, I started up the 
Pedee river* with twenty-men for the purpose of procur- 
ing forage. I proceeded up the river about sixteen 
miles. Near Wadesboro, found a steam mill; ordered 
the proprietor to fire-up and go to work grinding meal 
for us. In the mean time the boys succeeded in finding 
as many nice hams as the horses could carry. We got 
our meal ground about an hour before sundown and 
mounted our horses to start for camp, when, on looking 
down the road I saw a party of mounted men, I judged 
about one hundred. Thinking they were too strong for 
us I thought it policy to retreat, but as soon as we 
started the "Johnnies" gave a " corn-meal yell" and came 
for us. AYe issued our hams and meal, quicker than any 
commissary could have done it. The rebels being better 
mounted were soon upon us. A running fight was kept 
up for nearly quarter of a mile, and I saw they were 
2:ainincj on us all the time. About a dozen of them beinor 
right among us, while several of tlie boys had aban- 
doned their horses and taken to the timber. In order 



154 HISTORiT OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTKY VOLS. 

to avoid capture, on coming into a lane I ordered a halt. 
The boys all sprang from their horses and began pump- 
ing their Spencers, which soon made the rebs turn their 
backs upon us. We followed them back some distance. 
Saw four of the poor devils that we had shot, one of 
them was not quite dead. He said there were one hun- 
dred and fifty of them. After we drove them back they 
made a flank movement and attempted to charge us 
across an open field, but we soon made them seek 
the timber for safety. We tlien started for camp. 
Taking a small path through the timber, we traveled at 
a 2-40 rate for about ten miles. When within about five 
miles of where we left our brigade in the morning, we 
learned from one of our boys — who had become sepa- 
rated from us in the beginning of the fight, and was in 
advance of us — that Butler's IJebel Division was camped 
on the road a short distance in front of us. Here was 
another dilemma. After due deliberation we left the 
road, which ran parallel with the river, and took through 
tlie country, keeping between the road and river. We 
had to cross creeks and ravines of every size and de- 
scription. We reached the 14th A. C, about one o'clock 
in the morning, tired and hungry, did not overtake our 
own command until after 11 o'clock the next night. In 
the fight St. George of Co. " I> " had his coat sleeve 
torn oif by a big reb who ordered him to surrender. He 
said he " couldn't see it." Several of the boys Avere 
struck with pistols and carbines. Quite a number of 
hats were lost, but the boys soon " cramped " others of 
the South Carolina chivalry. I had four men captured, 
but only one man wounded — Walker of Co. " A," — very 
slightly. ' 

During the march from the Great Pedee to Fayette- 
ville, forage w^as exceedingly scarce. Foragers some- 
times rode all day and saw only a few wretched huts. 
To take from the poverty-stricken inhabitants was to 
rob the poor. It was the only alternative, and the ma- 
jority of the few citizens that lived in that region were 
left utterly destitute. 

The soldiers were often deeply aft'ected by the scenes 
of destitution and want. The foragers sometimes 
visited houses wdiei-e everything had been taken and the 



AX AFFECTING INCIDENT. 155 

children were crying for bread. Having compassion 
upon them, they would leave with them some of the 
forafre collected at other places, but would scarcely be 
gone before another party, less humane, would visit the 
house and take all that had been left by their predeces- 
sors. 

I will relate an incident that occurrred at a small 
house which the column passed when we were almost 
through the pine wilderness. An intelligent lady with 
two children occupied the house ; one was a pretty curly- 
haired girl of about seven years, and the other a blue- 
eyed boy about four years old. Everything fit to eat, 
and almost every thing else had been taken. Many 
soldiers were in and about the house ; one was lying on 
the floor very sick. The little boy, with tears standing 
in his eyes, was crying — "Ma, — ma — I'm hungry; I 
want something to eat." 

" I have nothing," said she, " but an ear of corn ; I 
made my dinner on that — ask the soldiers for something." ■ 
The soldiers were almost entirely d^titute, but they 
could not resist such appeals — although the little boy 
did not ask them, as the mother suggested. They gave 
the family pieces of corn bread, small bits of pork, and 
one or two yams. 

The column marched all day the 8tli of March through 
the " pine barrens," and saw only one house — a mere 
hut. It rained all day. Camped five miles south of 
Lumber river. 

We moved at G o'clock in the morning, March 9th ; 
followed a by-road four miles and then halted to await 
the completion of a bridge across Lumber river. After 
waiting over three hours we moved forward, and during 
the next two hours marched one mile. Night overtook 
us in the midst of a heavy rain storm — still south of 
Lumber river. General AVard had determined to cross 
that evening. General Geary had "outflanked" him 
during the day, and camped his division before ni->'ht. 
Ward was therefore SAvearing mad, and declared he 
" would not let Geary get al^ead next day if it cost half 
the men in the Division." But the old General was com- 
pelled to succumb to inevitable fate that evening, and he 



156 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

abandoned the idea of crossing before morning. We 
camped as best we could, hungry, wet and cokl. Hard 
bread was issued that night — the first for over a month. 

We moved at six in the morning, March 10th. Crossed 
Lumber river and three swamps in passing over the first 
mile. The heavy rains had raised the Avater until the 
bridges were surrounded. The road was very narrow, 
and through the mud and water the wagon train, the 
foragers and the infantry, huddled all together, pressed 
forward. The men were compelled to wade one of the 
swamps. The water was eighteen inches deep and very 
cold. 

Although on the road from six o'clock in the morning 
until ten o'clock at night, we marched only seven miles. 
Camped near Rock Fish Creek — twenty miles from Fay- 
etteville. 

During the morning of the 11th the troops corduroyed 
three miles of road. In the afternoon struck a plank 
road, and at ten o'clock p. m. reached Fayetteville — hav- 
ing marched the last ten miles in two and a half hours. 

At Fayetteville, Gen. Sherman communicated with 
the Federal forces in Wilmington, and we had an oppor- 
tunity to send letters home, a privilege we had not 
enjoyed since leaving Robertville, South Carolina, over 
five weeks previous. 

We rested at Fayetteville on the 12th, and marching 
in review before Gen. Sherman through the city, crossed 
Cape Fear river on the 13th. 

The brigade — excepting the 102d — camped a short dis- 
tance north of the river. Our regiment was sent for- 
ward on a reconnoisance. Musketry firing was heard 
not far ahead. The foragers were driving the enemy. 
This they had been doing for many days, but they were 
destined soon to " run against an obstacle," Avhich could 
not be overcome by their loose system of warfare. 

The regiment did not come up with the enemy, but 
went into camp about five miles north of the river. 
From that position another reconnoisance was made the 
following day. We were accompanied by the 20th 
Conn, and 33d Massachusetts regiments. The foragers 
drove the enemy from several barricades, 'but at Silver 
Run, nine miles from our camp, on the Raleigh road, the 



BATTLE OF AVERYSBORO. 157 

rebels were found in a strong position, from whicli they 
refused to be tlriven. A skirmish line was deployed. 
Co's A, I, C and E, went out from the 102d. A sharp skir- 
mish took place, lasting over an hour. But the rebels 
were entrenched, and to all appearances had a superior 
force. At dusk the reconnoitering party withdrew, and 
we made a tedious march back to camp. 

The troops advanced next morning on the same road. 
At Silver Creek only a light skirmish line of the enemy 
was found. The foragers could drive them without 
difficulty. We camped that evening a short distance 
north of Silver Creek. It rained furiously. Our camp 
was in a pine wood that had recently been burning. 
Everything was black, including ourselves. There was 
plenty of water but no soap. The enemy had become 
stubborn during the evening, and skirmished heavily 
with Kilpatrick's men. 

March 16th. The troops moved early and soon found 
the enemy. When about four miles south of Averys- 
boro heavy firing commenced in front. The 1st Brigade, 
except the 70th Indiana, which was " train-guard," was 
formed on the right of the road in line of battle, and 
preparations were made for an advance. Finally we 
moved by the left flank, crossed the road, and made a 
detour of about three-fourths of a mde to the left. Then 
moved to the front, the skirmishers becoming quickly 
engaged. As we advanced cautiously through the young 
pines to the edge of an open field, it was perceived that 
the Brigade had completely flanked the rebel position. 
Not more than a hundred and twenty-five yards in ad- 
vance they were visible in great numbers, running for- 
ward to their front line of works to reinforce the rebels 
there engaged. At that instant a number of our men 
yelled out, "Don't fire — they are our own men." For a 
moment our line was undecided. It was thought barely 
possible that we had become bewildered and were about 
to charge our own troops. Many months of active cam- 
paigning had rendered the uniform of the opposing 
armies almost undisthiguishable. Many of the rebels 
wore blue, and many of the Federals, having worn out 
their blue, Avere dressed in citizen's gray. The enemy in 



l58 HISTORY OF THE 102(1 ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

the mefintime had kept up a galling slvirinish fire, and 
heavy artillery and infantry tiring was going on in the 
front, where the 3d Briiifade confronted their breastworks. 
Soon all doubts as to the identity of the rebels in our 
front were dispelled. The Brigade raised a yell, and, as 
if by an intuitive perception of the duty required, rushed 
forward — the 102d on the right, the 79th on our left; 
the 129th and 105th m the second line. The rebels, 
completely surprised and outflanked, instantly broke. 
Yelling like wild men, the Brigade swept magniiicently 
forwar<i, directly in rear of and parallel witli the rebel 
line of works. Three pieces of artillery fell into our 
hands and many prisoners — recumbent in a trench behind 
their works — held up their hands and handkerchiefs beg- 
ging for mercy. But the main body of the charging 
column rushed by them and continued on after the Hying 
enemy, who abandoned blankets, haversacks, canteens, ' 
guns, cartridge-boxes — everything that could impede 
their progress. Reaching heavy timber, the pursuing 
column halted, re-formed the line of battle, and rested for 
a time, keeping up a sharp skirmish fire with the enemy. 
Capt. Wm. M. Armstrong, of Co. B, who had gallantly 
led his company in the charge, was at that time severely 
wounded and was carried from the held. At length, 
other troops having moved forward to our support, a 
general advance was made. The second line of rebel 
works was found abandoned, but as we approached the 
tliird- which was very strong, we were met by a rapid 
fire of musketry and artillery, the enemy throwing grape 
shot and shells. The advance was made over level 
ground, in a pine Avood that was quite free of under- 
brush. The enemy had an almost unobstructed view of 
our lines. 

It seems reasonable that troops should not be ad- 
vanced into such a position unless a charge is intended. 
But no charge was ordered. Onr bugle at intervals 
sounded the Brigade refrain "Hail Columbia," tfec, then 
the " forward." The enemy knew what the bugle meant 
as Avell as we, and the moment the column moved, poured 
in a heavy volley of musket balls and grape shot, which 
checked the advance — the men lying down ; some })ro- 
tected by trees and logs, others in open ground. The 



BATTLE OF AVERYSBORO. 159 

affair in tlie morning had been managed magnificently 
but the al"ternoon\s work was done in a bungling manner. 
Finally the Brigade threw u}) breastworks a hundred 
and twenty-five yards from the enemy's line. 

Night came on with rain. It had been a day of ex- 
citement and fatigue. Cold and wet, we passed a mis- 
erable night. But the rebels must have been more mis- 
erable, for, as we discovered next morning, they retired 
during the night, and were obliged to pass along a most 
wretched road, rendered almost impassable by the rain. 

Thus terminated the battle of Averysboro. In the 
102d two men Avere killed and nineteen wounded. The 
killed were Cornelius Lott, Co. I, and fc'amuel D. Hutch- 
inson, Co. K. Among the wounded were Capt. J. Y. 
Merritt, Co. K, Capt. O. B. Matteson, Co. D, and Lieut. 
A. H. Trego, Co. C, then A. A. G. on staff of Brigade Com- 
mander. 

1st Seroeant J. C. Simpson was shot through the left 
arm, which was afterwards amputated. H. J. Fisher was 
accidentally shot by a comrade, the ball passing through 
liis left leg, which was subsequently amputated. 

The advance regiment of the Division pursued the 
enemy through Averysboro. • The Division remained 
near the town until next morning to keep up the show of 
a movement on Raleigh. 

General Sherman, in his report of the " Campaign of 
the Carolinas," makes the following, among other re- 
marks in regard to the battle at Averysboro. After giv- 
ing an account of the position of affairs on the evening 
of the 15th, he says: 

" Next morning the column advanced in the same order 
and developed the enemy, with artillery, infantry, and 
cavalry, in an entrenched position in front of the point 
where the road branches off toward Goldsboro, through 
Benton ville. On an inspection of the map, it was mani- 
fest that Hardee, in retreating from Fayetteville, had 
halted in the narrow swampy neck between Cai)e Fear 
and South rivers, in hopes to hold me to save time for 
the concentration of Johnston's armies at some point to 
his rear, namely, Raleigh, Smithfield, or Goldsboro. 
Hardee's force was estimated at 20,000 men. It was 
necessary to dislodge him, that we might have the use of 



160 HISTORY OF THE 102d ill. infantry vols. 

the Goldsboro Koad, as also to keep np the feint on 
Raleigh as long as possible. General Slocum was thei-e- 
Ibre ordered to press and carry the position, only difficult 
by reason of the nature of the ground, which was so soft 
that horses would sink everywhere, and even men could 
hardly make their Avay over the common pine barren. 
• " The 20th Corps, General Williams, had the lead, and 
Ward's Division the advance. This was deployed, and 
the skirmish line developed the position of a bri ^ade of 
Charleston heavy artillery, armed as infantry, (Rhett's) 
posted across the road behind a light parapet, with a 
battery of guns enfilading the approach across a cleared 
field. General Williams sent a brigade (Case's) by a 
circuit to his left that turned this line, and by a quick 
charge broke the brigade, Avhich rapidly retreated back 
to a second line better built and more strongly held. 
The whole line advanced late in the afternoon, drove the 
enemy well within his entrenched line, and pressed him 
so hard that next morning he was gone, having retreated 
in a miserable stormy night over the worst of roads. 
Ward's division of infantry followed to -and through 
Averysboro, developing the fact that Hardee had re- 
treated, not on Raleigh, but on Smithfield." 

He also states that the Division captured " three guns 
and 217 prisoners, of which 68 were wounded." * * * 
That " one hundred rebel dead were buried by us," and 
that the loss of the left wing of his army in that afl'air 
w*as 67 killed and 477 wounded. 

Everything indicated that the rebels had been badly 
cut up in the fight. Their dead and wounded were 
found in almost every house in the vicinity of Averys- 
boro — one house contained sixteen of their dead. In the 
town itself we found thirty of their wounded. An 
abandoned ambulance, which we passed, contained a 
dying rebel officer. The poor fellow moaned piteously. 

We followed the main army on the Goldsboro road, 
the morning of the 18th. Crossed a number of swamps ; 
roads very bad — in some places almost impassable for 
teams. All night we Avere on the move or waiting to 
move, and between sunset and sunrise passed over but 
three miles of the road. 



BATTLE OF BEXTOXYILLE. 161 

The march was continued on the 19th. In the after- 
noon of that day the battle of Bentonville took pbice. 
Gen. Joe Johnston then hurled all of his available force 
on the left flank of Sherman's army. The cannonading 
early in the afternoon became very heavy directly in our 
front. We were then guarding a wagon train, but the 
Division Avas ordered forward to assist those eng^ao^ed, 
and the teams were left to come up at leisure. Then 
there was a rush towards the front — cavalry, artillery 
and infantry all crowding along one narrow road. As 
we approached the scene of action the roar of the con- 
flict became perfectly terrific. The advance brigade of 
Carlin's Division, 14th Corps, had been repulsed, and 
affairs looked somewhat critical. Our batteries were 
being served with wonderful energy. The crashing 
roar of musketry reminded us of Resaca. Our Division 
w^as quickly hurried to a position on the left of the 1st 
Division, and breastworks were thrown up by the 1st 
Brigade in almost no time. The men thought they would 
be needed, but they were not. The extreme left did not 
become engaged. 

During the day a squad of eight foragers from our 
Kegiment had a severe fight with a party of rebels. In 
regard to the affair, Corporal E. S. Ricker, one of the 
eight, writes : 

" I wish to do honor to the memory of a gallant lad 
who fell mortally wounded on that occasion — Wm. H. 
Hampton, of Co. K. Eight of us were attacked by over 
thirty rebels. Hampton was wounded in the leg just 
above the knee but continued to fight on until he had 
discharged his piece ten times, and then fell on his face 
fainting. You cannot do him and others of like charac- 
ter full justice by any eulogium. He displayed the finest 
equalities I ever saw exhibited in action." 

The others of the party were not hurt. Hampton was 
taken to a field hospital, and a week later he died. 

On the 20th, orders were issued for a general assault 
upon the enemy's works — to take place next morning. 
This order was not communicated otHcially to the troops, 
but it was soon noised around, and that evening there 



162 IIISTOEY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY YOLS. 

was much sober thought about tlie work to be acconi- 
plislied on the morrow. In such a case the soldiers dis- 
like to be in suspense. One who distinguished himself 
on every fiehl where the regiment fought, describes his 
feelings on that occasion in the following Avords : " After 
hearing this news, we were a sober, silent party. For it 
is desperate work to charge the enemy's Imes over open 
fields, where, if Ave should tail, there Avould be but slight 
hope of escape from death or imprisonment. We all 
wenf to bed early — silent and thoughtful. Were up at 
5.30 next morning and ready to move on the enemy's 
works. I cannot describe the feelings then experienced, 
nor the thoughts that passed through my mind, as I sat 
by the fire, Avaiting for the time Avhen the Avork should 
commence. I almost longed for the time to come that 
the Avork might be finished and oif my mind. This 
thinking of a battle so long before it is to take place, 
and knowing it must be fought, almost makes a coward 
of the thinker." 

But the contemplated assault Avas abandoned. 

We remained in the vicinity of the Bentonville battle 
ground until the morning of the 22d; in the intermedi- 
ate time built a ncAV line of Avorks — marched to them — 
returned to the old line — then back again to the new. 
There Avas picket firing and cannonading on the right 
much of the time. The morning of the 22cl, the enemy 
having retired to Smithfield, Ave resumed the march to 
Goldsboro. A hio-h Avind Avas bloAvino- • otherAvise the 
day Avas beautiful. A star (Venus) Avas A'isible at noon- 
day in the clear sky. It attracted general attention, and 
the soldiers called it " Sherman's Star," and Avas sure it 
was the star of peace. At dusk Ave reached Falling 
Creek. The bridge across the creek Avas in a miserable 
condition — indeed it Avas the Avorst bridge we crossed 
during the campaign. Our brigade occupied two hours 
in getting over. 

On the 23d ^ve crossed Neuse River. Previous to 
crossing Ave waited for a time in a plowed field. The 
Avind Avas bloAving a hurricane, and Ave Avei'e almost suf- 
focated Avith dust that was SAvept up in great clouds from 
the field. During the day we passed some of Major Gen. 
Terry's ti'oops — tAVo divisions, one composed of Avhite 



ARRIVAL AT GOLDSBORO. 168 

troops the other of blacks. Some of the men from the 
white division comphxined very bitterly of their hard- 
ships. They "had been cut off from communication 
and had been witliout letters seven days.'''' Our men an- 
swered them very consolingly, sayings " It is too bad — a 
real shame — but tlien we have had no lettei's since Janu- 
ary r2th — our latest news from home is only seventy 
days old." We camped near Beaver's Creek that even- 
ing nine miles southwest of Goldsboro. The rebel 
cavalry skirmislied there with the pickets. The 102d 
being detailed to guard the pack mules into town, we 
were up at 1 o'clock a. m., March 24th. Moved without 
breakfast an hour nd a half later — reached Goldsboro 
at daylight. Finally the Briga ie went into camp and 
constructed breastworks two miles north of the town. 

During the raid tlie 102d lost 44 men — killed, wounded 
and captured. 

Excepting one or two intervals of rest, we had been 
raiding fifty-two days, and, according to Gen. Sherman's 
own statement, had marched nearly five hundred miles. 
The troops were ragged beyond all description. Swarthy, 
smoked and worn out — many without shoes — no wonder 
the negro sold rs of Terry's command said, as the 
raiders marched by, " Sherman's men are a hard lookin' 
set, suahy If the army could have marched through a 
northern city, appearing as it did, the people would have 
held up their hands in amazement and inquired, "What 
wretched ragamuffins r^re these?" — and some independent 
soldier would have replied, "Only Sherman's Greasers." 



164 IlISTOKY OF THE 102d ILL. HSFANTEY VOLS. 



-CHAPTER XI. 

Mest and recuperation. JVew clothes. The fighting at 
Michniond and Peter shu7'g. The glorious result. 
Advance on Raleigh. News of the surrender of Lee''s 
Army. Goixg home. The iio3ieward march. 

The army needed a long rest at Goldsboro, but did 
not get it. AYe remained there from tlie 24th of March 
until the 10th of April. During the intermediate time 
new clothes were drawn, and the great ragged army 
came out in an entirely new suit of blue. 

While at Goldsboro, Capt. Isaac McManus rejoined 
the regiment. He had been commissioned Lieutenant- 
Colonel, but, as we had two field officers, could not be 
mustered into that grade. Col. McManus had earned 
the position by his valuable services and his sufferings, 
and he is therefore generally accorded the title which 
was withheld from him by a mere technicality. At the 
date of this writing he is still suffering from the wound 
received at Pine Mountain — his left arm being hopelessl}^ 
crippled. 

The news of severe fighting at Petersburg and Pich- 
mond reached us about the 4th of April. On the 6th 
there was a grand review of the division by Major-Gen. 
Mower, who had succeeded Gen. Williams in the com- 
mand of the 20th Corps. As we were coming in from the 
review, w^e heard heavy cheering far away in the direc- 
tion of Goldsboro. Gradually the wave of enthusiasm 
approached our part of tlie line — one regiment following 
another in such outbursts of deafening cheers as can only 
be heard from soldiers in the hour of victory. 

What could it mean? We approached our camp and 
the glad news was then on every tongue — " Pichmond 
IS ours." Tlien the old " First Brigade " swelled the 
deep chorus of voices that went up from all tlie Jiills and 
A^alleys around Goldsboro. Everybody became happy. 



TUE ADVx\.]SrCE ON EALEIGH. 165 

That afternoon, business was almost suspended in high 
niilitai'3^ circles. The army was wild with joy. Addi- 
tional news in regard to the great victories, occasioned 
new outbursts of feeling. With enthusiasm that knew 
no bounds, the troops received the order of Gen. Grant 
announcing the result, and saying substantially to Gen. 
Sherman: "Move immediately against Johnston, and 
let us finish up the job at once." 

The morning of the 10th, we were in motion. Our 
brigade moved through Goldsboro, made slow time, and 
camped about six miles southwest of town near Mocka- 
sin River. The next day we made a rapid march to 
Smithfield. The day was very warm and great numbers 
of the soldiers fell out by the way, completely exhausted. 
Several men died of excessive heat. Others were in 
sjjasms, and many were doubtless injured for life. 

It appeard afterwards that there was no necessity 
whatever for the rapid march. No enemy was found at 
Smithiield, 

Camped the night of the 11th a quarter of a mile east 
of the town. Moved at sunrise next morning — on the 
road leading westward through Smithfield. As the 
head of the column approached the ancient little town, 
cheer after cheer reached us from other columns and 
from the camps of other troops. " More good news " the 
soldiers said and pressed forward to hear it announced. 
An Aid soon rode along the column, and the electric 
words thrilled every heart, "L)<:e has surrendeked 

WITH HIS WHOLE ARMY !" 

Then the cheering surpassed all previous manifesta- 
tions. Hats flew into the air as thick as the flying leaves 
of autumn. Oh ! the unspeakable joy of that moment to 
the war-worn soldiers. The glorious words needed no 
comment. All felt that the war was virtually over — the 
Union saved. A few moments later we passed Gen. 
Sherman, who was walking rapidly to and fro on the 
sidewalk, his hands crossed behind him. He was evi- 
dently absorbed in deep thought, but his thoughts could 
only have been of a happy nature, for he had just issued 
an order in which the following noble sentiments were 
uttered, substantially in these words : 



166 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

^'' All glory he to God! And all honor to our hrave 
comrades towards whom we have been rnarchlm/ ! A 
little more toil ; a few more days of labor ^ and the great 
race is won / and our government stands before the 
world redeemed and disinthralled.'''' 

The march on that day was also severe. We crossed 
Neuse river and camped twelve miles from Raleigh, on 
the west side of a small creek. 

Moved at daylight the 13th, and reached Raleigh 
without opposition at 2 o'clock p. m. Went into camp 
southeast of the city. The rear of Johnston's army had 
retired during the previous night. 

Saturday, the 15th, according to previous orders we 
were ready to move at six o'clock in the morning. But 
the order was countermanded. Joe Johnston, as we 
subsequently learned, had offered to talk with Gen. 
Sherman about surrendering. 

While negotiations were pending, the news of the 
assassination of the President reached us. The army 
during many days, had been intoxicated with joy, but 
when this terrible news was confirmed, the general joy 
was turned into mourning. Had all the bright omens of 
peace been suddenly swept away the reaction could not 
have been as violent as it was under the effect of this 
one harrowing thought — Lincoln slain in the hoar of 
victory. O ! how the great heart of the army throbbed 
and swelled ; first Avitli the wild thirst for vengeance, 
and then with a profound sorrow, that would heed no 
words of consolation. 

Two days after the receipt of this news. Gen. Sher- 
man announced that he had effected an arrangement with 
Johnston, which if approved at Washington would 
secure peace, and he would soon be enabled to " conduct 
us to our homes." Peace and home — sweet words. But 
this great news was scarcely sufticient to arouse the 
army from the deep lethargy into which it had fallen. 
Patiently we awaited the return of the messenger that 
had been sent to Washington with the "memoranda" of 
Gen. Sherman's arrangement with Johnston. With the 
announcement of his return we expected to receive 
orders to commence the homeward march. 



GRANT AND SHERMAN. 167 

The citizens of Raleigh and vicinity, were anxious for 
a restoration of peace and a return to the old order of 
things. Some of them had never been disloyal, while 
the disloyalty of others had been most eifectually subju- 
gated. An old citizen, whom our foragers visited m the 
country, entertained very peculiar ideas in reference to 
the state of the country. " I always told them so," said 
he, alluding to his fire-eating neighbors. " I always told 
them 'Uncle Sam' would be our next President, and 
now its going to be just as I told 'em. * Uncle Sam's ' 
bound to be our next President." 

Raleigh is a beautiful city. The site is elevated, and 
the ground undulating. The State house is large and 
commodious, but not remarkable for its beauty. In front 
of it there is a magnificent bronze statue of Washington, 
representing him clad in the panoply of war. The Insane 
Asylum is an imposing structure, six hundred feet in 
length and of a proportionate height. There is also in 
the city an asylum for the deaf and dumb. 

Those of our regiment who were in Raleigh the morn- 
ing of the 24th, witnessed a grand pageant — the review 
of the 17th Corps by Gens. Grant and Sherman. Grant 
had arrived that morning. Very few were aware of his 
presence in the city. As the hour for the commencement 
of the review approached, an immense concourse of spec- 
tators, soldiers and citizens, collected about the reviewing 
stand. Guards kept the streets clear. At length the 
familiar form of Sherman, on horseback, caught the eye 
of the crowd. But who was that with him, riding on 
the right — short, heavy-set, iron-fea.ured ; looking travel- 
worn, yet having the bearing of the quiet great man. It 
was Grant, fresh from the scenes of his victories in Vir- 
ginia. The glorious old 17th Corps marched proudly 
that day. It was a pleasure to them to dip their tattered 
flags to the chief whom they had known at Vicksburg. 

The Generals remained seated upon their horses at the 
reviewing post. Grant was quiet and calm as usual. 
Sherman who was stationed then on his right — a very 
little retired — exhibited a slisrht desfree of restlessness — 
lookmg occasionally to the right and to the left, and then 
fixing his eyes for an instant on the ground as if in deep 



168 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTEY VOLS. 

thought. He had that morning received the informa- 
tion that his arrangement with Johnston was disap- 
proved. 

Other distinguished Generals were there — Howard, 
Schofield, Logan, Jefi'. C. Davis, Slocum, Blair, and a 
host of other Major Generals, with a small regiment of 
Brigadiers. 

At the close of the review, as Sherman and Grant rode 
through the crowd, there was a spontaneous outburst of 
cheering, and their way was almost blocked by the surg- 
ing mass of humanity — weak humanity it is true, and yet 
it is no mean quality to honor the truly great. 

That evening, without one word of explanation, we 
were ordered to be in readiness to march the following 
morning. Rumors were rife that President Johnston 
had disapproved of Sherman's proceedings, and that we 
were to " go for them " again. The troops were ner- 
vously excited, and not a little angry with the new 
President. " Grape-vine " said that Slierman had ten- 
dered his resignation, but the men could not tolerate the 
thought. They wanted no other leader. 

The morning of the 25th tlie new campaign opened. 
It was destined to be short. A few moments after the 
march commenced Col. Smith and Adjutant Snyder 
rejoined the regiment, both having been " absent with 
leave, and " on detached service." Our new chaphiin, 
Rev. C. M. Wright, had joined the regiment a few days 
before — also Capt. D. W. Sedwick and Lieut. Wm. H. 
Bridoford. 

Our regiment, with the corps^ marched out about 
fourteen miles on the Holly Springs road. Camped six 
miles from the springs, and remained there during the 
26th and 27th. In the meantime Johnston surren- 
dered. We returned to Raleigh the morning of the 28th, 
and immediately commenced preparations for the home- 
ward march. 

Being sick at the time and unable to march with the 
troops, 1 have obtained of Corporal E. S. Ricker, of Co. I, 
a brief sketch of the march irom Raleigh to Alexandria. 
Friend Ricker is an accomplished writer, but has had no 
time to furnish more than the mere outline of the march. 
He says : 



^ ENROUTE FOR RICHMOND. 169 

" At seven a. m., on the 30th of April, we left Rnleigh 
en route for Washington, via Richmond. Marched thir- 
teen miles and c mped on the west side of the Neuse 
river, near Faust's Paper Factory. Ward's Division in 
the rear. May 1st. — Early in the morning crossed the 
river — marched twenty miles — Ward's Division in the 
rear. May 2d. — Marched thirteen miles, and Avent into 
camp on the north bank of Tar river. May 3d. — Marched 
twenty-five miles and passed from North Carolina into 
Virginia. Crossed Roanoke river after night, and 
camped near that stream. Onr division (Ward's) which 
had been previous to that time considerably in the rear, 
came up with the corps at the Roanoke, and passed over 
the river in advance. May 4th. — Moved athalf-})ast four 
A. M., Gen. Ward in advance. Crossed Meherrin river, 
at Saftbld's Bridge. Marched twenty miles that day. 
May 5th. — ]\Ioved again at half-past four in the morning. 
Ward in advance. 102d in the rear of the division — 
acting as train guard. Reached camp at three o'clock 
r. M., on the north side of the Nottoway river, having 
marched eighteen miles — weather very warm. May 6th 
— Moved out soon after daylight, marched about fifteen 
miles — passed through Black's and White's and Well- 
ville stations, on the Petersburg and Lynchburg railroad. 
At the former place found some of the Sixth Corps — 
Army of the Potomac — on duty. Went into camp at 
noon ; weather excessively warm. A ration of whisky 
was issued to the men. Moved May 7th, at 4.30 a. m. 
Harrison's Brigade in advance of the corps. Crossed 
the Appommatox River before noon and reached camp 
at Clover Hill, twenty-one miles from Richmond, at 
12.30 p. M., having marched about eighteen miles. May 
8th. — Moved at 4.30 a. m., and went into camp at noon, 
seven miles from Richmond ; weather Aery Avarm. May 
9th. — MoA^ed tAvo and a half miles in the direction of 
Manchester. Orders Avere received from Gen. Halleck, 
directing the army to resume the march towards Wash- 
ington on the folloAving morning. The order announced 
that the troops Avould pass in revicAV before Gen. 
Halleck's headquarters. That evening Gen. Sherman ar- 
rived from Savannali. May 10th — Orders received on the 
previous day Avere countermanded. May 11th, at 11 a. m., 



170 nisTOEY OF THE 102d ill. infantry vols. 

the march was resumed, but the troops did not march in 
review through Richmond. Passed Castle Thunder and 
Libby Prison. We were treated with marked attention by 
the people. They supplied the thirsty soldiers with water 
and in some cases with wine. AYe camped four miles 
from Capitol Square, on the road leading to Washington, 
and at the point where Kilpatrick trained his artillery on 
Richmond in one of his dashing exploits Avhen connected 
with the Potomac army. May 12th. — Marched nine 
miles. Roads in bad condition. Waited in the morn- 
ing for the 17th Corps to pass. The 14th Corps was in 
advance of the 20th — crossed the Chickahominy and 
camped one mile south of Ashland. May 13th. — Crossed 
the South Anna in the forenoon, marched fifteen miles 
and camped at night on the south side of Little 
River. May 14th. — Crossed Little River and the North 
Anna. Ward's Division in the rear. Marched about 
17 miles and camped within seven miles of Spottsylvania, 
C. H. May 15th. — Marched fifteen miles ; passed through 
Spottsylvania; saw many evidences of the hard lighting 
that took place there ; camped that evening on the old 
Chancellorsville battle ground. May 16tli. — A march of 
four miles brought us to the Rappahannock, which we 
crossed at United States Ford. Camped at sunset near 
White Ridge — a hamlet of half a dozen houses. Dis- 
tance marched about twenty-one miles. 

Early that morning. Adjutant J. H. Snyder, with a 
mounted orderly, W. O. Jones, of Co. I, rode oft' from 
the column to view the battle-ground. They never 
returned^ and no clue to their fate has since been ob- 
tained. 

May l7th. — Marched fifteen miles and camped at Occo- 
quon Creek. May 18th. — In the forenoon crossed Bull 
Run, a wide, shallow stream, with gravelly bottom, and 
clear water. Marched eighteen miles, and camped two 
miles northeast of Fairfax C. H. Weather excessively 
warm. May 19th. — Moved at an early hour and reached 
camp two and a half miles from Alexandria, a little after 
noon." 



MYSTERIOUS DISAPPEARANCE. 171 

ADJUTANT J. H. SNYDER. 

In the preceding notes of the homeward march, refer- 
ence is made to the mysterious disappearance of Adju- 
tant Snyder a id Private W.O. .Jones. As far as known, the 
circumstances attending this sad affair were as follows : 

The regiment being camped on the old Chancellorsville 
battle ground, there was an opportunity to visit the inter- 
esting localities in that historic region. When the regi- 
ment was inline ready to move, May lOth, Adjutant 
Snyder and W. O. Jones, rode away from the column to 
view the battle-ground. A short time afterwards they 
were seen by a member of Co. C, about two miles from 
the column on the left. They were then inquiring the 
distance and direction to the moving column. A squad 
of about twenty citizens was passing at the time. They 
said they were " going to Fredericksburg to take the 
oath." When we reflect what villains a majority of the 
oath-loving citizens were, we may well suspect that those 
men were none too good to waylay and murder a Union 
soldier. 

It was for a time supposed thai they had tarried on 
the field until the pontoon bridge was taken up and had 
been compelled to seek a crossing at Fredericksbur >•. 
But as day after day passed and nothing was heard of 
them, it became apparent that they had met with foul 
play. Frjm Washington, Lieut. Trego went back to 
Fredericksburg, and with a small squad of men, searched 
in the vicinity of the Chancellorsville battle ground, but 
could get no clue to the fate of the missing men. 

Adjutant Snyder was in many r spects a remarkable 
young man. Noble, generous and brave, his character 
was in every respect above reproach. The best facul- 
ties of the mind ruled his life. Temperate, honest and 
intelliojent : with a refined love of the beautiful, the true 
and the pure in nature and in human character, and pos- 
sessing withal a genial disposition, he was the soul of 
every social circle in which he moved, and was ever in 
the sunshine of life. An enthusiastic lover of music, he 
excelled in that noble accomplishment. Since returning 
home the men of the regiment often hear the strains he 
used to sing, and memory instantly recalls the old camp 
ground and the Adjutant with his guitar. 



172 HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. IXFANTEY VOLS. 

It is to be regi-etted that a more careful search was 
not made for the lost men before the Regiment left 
Washington. Even at this late day some clue might be 
obtained that would account for their mysterious disap- 
pearance. As members of the 102d, we owe it to t e 
memory of our lost comrades to have another and a 
thorough search made. Until this is done we cannot 
feel that we have properly discharged our duty in the 
premises. 

W. O. JONES. 

Private Jones, who was lost with the Adjutant, was 
then acting in the capacity of mounted orderly, and was 
a good boy. Faithful in the discharge of duty, he was 
mikl and patient under all circumstances. Often he 
talked of the approaching day of peace, and of return- 
ing to the home he was destned to see no more. He 
was esteemed throughout the Regiment as a faithful 
soldier. 



While encamped near Alexandria, preparations were 
made for the g. and review in Washington, and on the 
24t]i, at an early hour in tlie morning, the army was in 
motion. It was a beautiful morning, and as tlie columns, 
following a serpentine course, passed ov.r Arlington 
Heights, the scene was magnificent. There the soldiers 
caught the first view of the grand dome of the Capitol 
building. About 9 o"'clock a. m. we crossed the Potomac 
over Long Bridge, and felt that we were out of the land 
of Secessia. The head of the column was halted at 
Capitol Hill, and from t^at point t e review commenced. 

Marching around the Capitol building, we passed into 
Pennsylvania ^- venue, thenceforward for two miles — to 
tlie President's house — dense masses of humanity occu- 
pied the pavement on each side of the street, and at 
some places crowded upon the marching column. Every 
available place of observation was taken up. The noble 
army of the Potomac liad marched by, the previous day. 
And these were "[Sherman's raiders." How would they 
acquit themselves ? In column by company, with eyes 
fixed to tlie front, the regiments moved as one man — 
sixty thousand bayonets gleaming in the sunlight, and 



GRAND REVIEW IX WASHINGTON. 173 

each regiment bearing aloft the old flag. " Sherman 
has been abused^'' they said, and marched more proudly. 
There was music, but no music was needed to secure a 
uniform motion. The steady tramp — tramp — tramp — 
of each company on the paving stones, was heard dis- 
tinctly above the hum of voices and the strains of music. 
The pride and stren;^ th of the Great West swept down 
Pennsylvania Avenue. Kind words of Avelcome in ap- 
propriate mottoes, greeted the eyes of the soldiers, i nd 
bevies of beautiful ladies smiled a welcome still more 
prized. Onward the column moved. Cheers rang out 
on all sides. In its turn, with soldiery tread, the 102d — 
preceded by the 70th Indiana, and followed by the 79th 
Ohio, 129th and 105th Illinois — " dipped" the old flag to 
the President, Grant, Sherman and a brilliant galaxy of 
other c istino^u shed men of our own and other lands. 

After the review we marched to a camp near the 
northeast corner of the District of Columbia — one com- 
pany of the regiment being camped around the corner- 
stone. 

Thus we have traced the career of the Regiment to 
its virtual close. In rcA^iewing w^hat has been written, I 
am conscious that no delineations in the foregoing pages 
have adequately portrayed the worth of the brave men 
who shouldered their muskets on the banks of the Ohio, 
and fr jm that point carried our good old flag through 
Kentucky and Tennessee into Georgia — where its bright 
folds gleamed on many sanguinary fields — and thence 
bore it onward in " the march to the sea," the " cam- 
paign of the Carolinas," and finally exhibited it, tattered 
and torn, in the capital of the nation which they w^ent 
forth to save. How they tciled o.:ward when weary 
limbs almost refused them support, still looking forward 
to the hour of final victory, let the w^ords of a Christian 
w^arrior tell. They are the noble Avords of INIajor 
General O. O. Howard, and were spoke at Gettysburg, 
July 4th, 1865 : 

" I would point you to the soldier pursuing his enemy 
into the strongholds of Dalton, behind the stern impas- 
sable features of Rocky Face, Resaca, Adairsville, Cass- 
ville, Dalla: , New Hope Church, Pickett's Mill, Pine- 
top, Lost Mountain, Kenesaw, Gulp's Farm, Smyrna, 



IH HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTEY YOLS. 

Camp Ground, Peach Tree Creek, Atlanta, from so many 
points of vie\Y, and Jonesboro, are name of battle fields 
upon each of which a soldier's memory dwells. For 
upwards of a hundred days he scarcely rested from the 
oontiict. He skirmished over rocks, hills and mountains; 
through mud, streams and forests. For hundreds of 
miles he gave his aid to dig tliat endless chain of in- 
trenchments Avhich compassed every one of the enemy's 
fortified positions. Pie companied with those who corn- 
batted the obstinate foe on the front and on the flanks 
of those mountain fastnesses which the enemy had 
deemed impregnable, and he had a right at last to echo 
the sentiment of his indefatigable leader, 'Atlanta is 
ours, and fairly won.' 

" Could you now have patience to turn back with him 
and fight these battles over again, behold his communi- 
cations cut, his railroad destroyed for miles and miles ; 
enter the bloody tight of Alatoona, follow him through 
the forced marches, via Rome, Georgia, away back to 
Resaca, and through the obstructed gaps of the moun- 
tains of Alabama, you w^ould thank God for giving him 
a stout heart and an unflinching faith in a just and noble 
cause. Weary and worn, he reposed at Atlanta, on his 
return, but one single night, when he commenced the 
memorable march towartl Savannah. The soldier has 
become a veteran ; he can march all day with his mus- 
ket, his knapsack, his cartridge box, his haversack and 
canteen upon his person ; his muscles have become 
h\rge and rigid, so that what was once extremely diffi- 
cult he now accomplishes with graceful ease. This fact 
must be borne m mind when studying the soldiers' 
march through Georgia and the Carolinas. The enemy 
burned every bridge across stream after stream ; the 
rivers, ])ordered with swam])S — for example, the Ocmul- 
gee, the Oconee and the Ogechee — were defended at 
every crossing. That tliey were passed at all by our 
forces, is due to the clieerful, fearless, indomitable })ri- 
vate soldier. 

" Oh, that you had seen liim as I have done, wading 
creeks a half mile in width and water waist deep, under 
fire, pressing on through wide swamps, without une fal- 
tering step, charging in line upon the most foiniidable 



Sherman's farewell order. 175 

works, wliich were well defeiuled ! You eonld then np- 
preeinte liim and what he accomplished as I do. You 
could then feel the poignant sorrow that I always did 
feel when I saw him fall bleeding to the earth. I must 
now leave the soldier to tell Ids own tale among the peo- 
ple ; of his bold, bloody work at McAllister against the 
torpedoes, abattis, artillery and musketry; of his priva- 
tions at Savannah ; of his struggles through the swamj)S, 
quicksands, and over the broad rivers of the Carolinas ; 
of the fights, fires, explosions, doubts and triumphs sug- 
gested by Griswoldville, Kivers' and Binnaker's bridges, 
Orangeburg, Congaree Creek, Columbia, Cheraw, Fay- 
etteville, Avei-ysboro, and Bentonville. I will leave him 
to tell how his hopes brightened at the re-union at 
Goldsboro. How his heart throbbed with gratitude and 
joy as the wires confirmed the iumored news of Lee's 
defeat, so soon to be followed by the capture of the 
enemy's Capital and of his entire army. I will leave 
him to tell to yourselves and your children how he felt 
and acted ; how proud was his bearing ; how elastic 
his step as he marched in revicAV before the President 
of the United States at \Yashington ! I would do the 
soldier injustice not to say that there was one thing 
Avanting to make his satisfaction complete, and that was 
the sight of the tall form of Abraham Lincoln, and the 
absence of that bitter recollection which he could not 
altogether exclude from his heart — that lie had died by 
the hand of a traitor assassin." 

While we were in camp near Washington, General 
Sherman issued the following farewell order : 

Headquarters Mil. Div. of the Miss., ) 
Li the Field, Washington, D. C, May 30, 1865. \ 
Special Field Orders No. 78. 

The General Commanding announces to the Army of 
the Tennessee and Georgia, that the time has come for 
us to part. Our work is done, and armed enemies no 
longer defy us. Some of you will be retained in service 
till further orders. 

And now that we are about to separate to mingle with 
the civil world, it becomes a pleasing duty to recall to 
ndnd the situation of nationa' affairs, when but little 



176 HISTORY OF THE 102d ill. infantry vols. 

more than a year ago, we were gathered about the tow- 
ering c'litFs of Ljokont Mountain, and all the future was 
wrapped in doubt and uncertainty. Tliree armies had 
come together from distant fields with separate histo- 
ries, yet bound by one common cause, the Union of our 
country and the jjerpetuation of the Government of our 
inheritance. 

There is no need to recall to your memories. Tunnel 
Hill, Avith Rocky Face Mountain and Buzzard Roost 
Gap, with the ugly forts of Dalton behind. We were 
in earnest and paused i.ot for danger and difficulty, but 
dashed through Snake Creep Gap and fell on Resaca, 
then on to Etowah, to Dallas, Kenesaw, and the heats of 
summer found us on the banks of the Chattahoochie, far 
from home, and dependent upon a single road for sup- 
plies. Again we were not to be held back by any obsta- 
cle and crossed over and fought four hard battles for the 
possession of the citadel of Atlanta. That was the 
crisis of our history. A doubt still clouded our future, 
but we solved the problem and destroyed Atlanta, struck 
boldly across the State of Georgia, severed all the main 
arteries of life to our enemies, and Christmas found us 
at Savannah. Waiting there only long enough to fill 
our wagons, we again began our march, which for peril, 
labor and results, will compare with any ever made by 
an organized army. The floods of the Savannah, the 
swamps of the Combahee and Edisto, the high hills and 
rocks of the Santee, the flat quagmires of Pedee and 
Cape Fear rivers, were all passed in mid winter with its 
floods, and rains, in the face of an accunuilating enemy, 
and after the battles of Averysboro and Bentonsville, we 
once more came out of the wilderness to meet our friends 
at Goldsboro. Even then we paused only long enough 
to get new clothing, to re-load our wagoiis, and again 
pushed on to Raleigh, and beyond, until we met our 
enemy suing for peace instead of war, and ofiering to 
submit to the injured laws of his and our country. As 
long as that enemy was defiant, no mountains, nor rains, 
nor swamps, nor hunger, nor cold had checked us, but 
when he who had fought us hard and persistently, 
oflered submission, your negotiations followed, which 
resulted as you all know, in his surrender. How far the 



OUT OF THE SERVICE. ] 77 

operations of this army have contributed to the linal 
overthrow of the Confe<h.M-aey, and the peace which now 
dawns on us must be judged by otliers, uot by us ; but 
that you have done all that men could do has been ad- 
mitted by those in authority, and we have a right to 
join in the universal joy that lills our hmd, because the 
war is over, and our Govenuiient stands vindicated 
before the world, by the joint action of the volunteer 
armies of the United States. To such as remain in the 
military service, your General need only renin _d you 
that success in the past was due to hard work and disci- 
pline, and that the same Avorlv and discipline are equally 
important in the future, to such as go home he will only 
say that our favored country is so grand, so extensive, 
so diversified in climate, soil and productions, that 
every man may find a home and occupation suited to his 
taste, and none should yield to the natural impati.nce 
sure to re ult from our past life of excitement and ad- 
venture. You will be invited to seek new adventures 
abroad, but do not yield to the temptation, for it will 
lead only to death and disappointment. Your General 
now bids you all farewell, with the full belief, that as in 
war, you have been good soldiers, so in peace you Avill 
make good citizens, and if, unfortunately, a new war 
should arise in our country, " Sherman's army " will be 
the first to buckle on its old armor, and come forth to 
defend and maintain the Government of our inheritance 
and choice. 
By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, 

[Signed.] L. M. Daytox, iVsst. Adjt. Gen. 



Before the regiment left the camp at Washington, Col. 
Smith was promoted to the rank of Brevet Brigadier 
General. 

Until the 6th of June the officers were busily at work 
making out rolls, &c., i»reliminary to the dischni-ge of 
the regiment. On that day, in accordance Avith General 
Order Xo. 77, War Department, and Instructions from 
the Adjutant GeneraPs office, we ceased in reality to be 
soldiers of the Union army — and became as the men ex- 
pressed it. brevet citizens. 



178 HISTORY OF TJiE 102d ill. ixfantky vols. 

R'.^veille sounded tliat morning at two o'clock, and our 
cam]) at once became the scene of busy preparations for 
t!ie journey lioine. At four all was ready. The splen- 
did band of the 79th O. V. I., had assembled at regi- 
mental headquarters. A number of pieces were played 
in the best style, and the band preceded the regiment as 
it moved away. JoytuUy, yet almost sadly we marched 
away from the brigade encampment. Long years of 
hartlships and dangers had united the regiments as one 
family. Amid the parting adieus and good wishes of all, 
we marched away from the 70th Ind., and by the camps 
of the "79th," " 129th '^ and " lOStli." Halting a 
moment at Brigade Headquarters, we gave three cheers 
for " Little Ben," (Brev'et Brig. Gen. Ben Plarrison) then 
looked lor tlie last time at the lone-star-triangle, the 
battle flag which had fluttered befoi-e us from Chat- 
tanooga to Atlanta, from Atlanta to Savannah, and from 
Savannah to the last encampment. Then we passed on 
to Gen. Ward's headquarters — gave three cheers f o " the 
old General, and moved forward. After reaching the 
main road to Washington, the band filed ofl" at the roadside 
and continued playing, v Fainter the music grew as we 
marched awi^y, and among the last pieces we heard was 
the " Star-spangled Banner." Long live the memory of 
the "79th." The 102d fully appreciated this last gen- 
ei'ous compliment. 

At nine o'clock a. m., we boarded a train of box cars at 
Wasliington. It was an immense train — over a quarter 
of a mile in length, and blue with soldiers. Slowly we 
moved away through the green fields of Maryland — Jionie- 
'ward bound at last. 

Lovely Maryland ! pity that thy lauraled hills, thy 
green fields, thy noble forests should ever have been 
associated with the dark history of treason. 

Late in the afternoon we reached Baltimore and at 
dusk moved away westward, on the Penn. Central road. 
By daylight next morning we reached York, and during 
the morning followed up the Susquehanna — a broad, 
shallovv'" stream with a rugged, rocky bottom, and here 
and there pretty little islands. At Bridgeport, looking 
across the river we had a good view of llarrisburg. 



IIOMEWAUD BOUND. 179 

Some distance ahove lliirrisbiirg we left the Susque- 
hanna and foUow'^ed u\) the Juniata, and some of the 
soldiers were reminded of the occasion when tar a\v;iy in 
Georgia, the " Bhie Juniata " was phiyed so delightfully 
by the " 33d Mass. " Band, and Gen. Sherman desired 
them to repeat the enchanting strain. 

Upward — upward — crossing and recrossing the little 
stream, we a])proached the summit of the Alleghany 
Mountains. At the little town of Johnstown we were 
greeted with patriotic demonstrations of the most enthu- 
siastic character. All over the town at almost every 
door and window wliite handkerchiefs fluttered in the 
breeze. There was a universal rush for the depot. The 
children were evident y all out, and they exhausted every 
method of exhibiting their enthusiasm. The love of 
liberty has a generous growth in those wild and free 
mountain reijions. Passino; through a tunnel beneath 
the comb of the Alleghany range, we were soon whirling 
down the western slope, and a short time after midnight 
reached Pittsburg. That noble city extended us a most 
hospitable welcome. P^ven at that hour of the night, the 
good citizens were ready to work for the soldiers. We 
were conducted to the City Hall, and there partook of 
an excellent breakfast. A band discoursed sweet music 
Aviiile the soldiers were enjoying the meal. When the 
repast was finished the regiment gave three hearty 
cheers for the citizens of Pittsburg. One of the gentlemen 
who assisted in caring for the soldiers, said in response 
to the cheers : " I wish there were enough of us to give 
you such cheers, for you are the men who deserve the 
compliment." Noble and generous Pittsburg. In many 
Western homes the memory of thy disinterested hospi- 
tality Avill be cherished by those who, being tired and 
hungry, were fed and sent on their way rejoicing. 

But I have not space to dwell upon the incidents 
attending our homeward ride. During the Stii, Ave 
moved through the fertile fields of Ohio ; at night, ]>assed 
into Indiana, and reached Chicago in our own Illinois, 
on the morning of the 9th. 

Chicago was in the midst of a great Sanitary Fair, 
and the citizens were so occupied with this philanthropic 
enterprise, that they did not know of our coming. No 



ISO HISTORY OF THE 102d ILL. INFANTRY VOLS. 

one was ready to receive us. We left the cars in a cold 
rain. Finally marched into an amphitheatre at the Sani- 
tary Fair grounds, and after waiting two houvs and a 
half, cold and hungry, partook of an indifferent meal at 
the Soldier's Rest. " And this is in Illinois," mused the 
soldier — " this — Chicago — not Pittsburg .^" But Chicago 
was in the midst of a great national sanitary fair ! 
What wonder that while engaged in such a magnificent 
field of philanthropy she w^as forgetful of the wants of 
one little Sucker regiment. 

We were assigned quarters at Camp Fry. There we 
received our pay and final discharge on the 14th of June, 
and the men took the first trains for their respective 
homes-. Each company on reaching the town or neigh- 
borhood, where organized, met with a magnificent wel- 
come, which went far towards removing the impression 
j)roduced by the cold comfort extended us by the chief 
citv of our State. 



With the disbandinix of the re<>:iment the thread of our 
story ends — yet I am loth to quit the interesting theme. 
There is a charm connected with active military service 
which no other pursuit can give. Emotions are awakened, 
which, as citizens, we can never feel again. AYe almost 
long to experience the sensations produced during the 
most eventful moments of tlie great campaigns ; to hear 
again the grand roll of artillery, to observe the bursting- 
shells, and to shout once more the shout of victory. 

Since the dark cloud of war has passed by, it seems 
even more black than when the storm was at its height. 
But the sunshine of peace is upon us once more. 

In the midst of the sunshine there are shadows. Our 
minds revert to the Southern battle-fields, and to the 
many thousand graves which mark the route loUowed by 
the great army. " Sleeping for the flag," among the 
pines of northern Georgia, along the line of the march 
to the sea, and in the far-off Carolmas, our hero-comrades 
rest — but not unremembered. The "Old Flag," conse- 
crated afresh by their blood, floats unopposed in every 
State where its defenders are buried. 



SUPPLEMENTARY. 181 



SUPPLEMENTARY. 

Col. Stnith's Report of the Atlanta Campaign. 

HEAD QUARTERS 102D REG'T ILL. VOLS. 
Atlanta Georgia, Sept. 20th, 1864. 
COLONEL D. DUSTIN, 

CoMiMANDING 3d DiV., 20tH A. C, 

Sir : I have the honor to report that on the morning of the 2d 
day of May last, in obedience to orders received May 1st, I broke 
camp at Wauhatchie, and moved with the brigade, South from Chat- 
tanooga, passed through Rossville, and camped for the night near 
Gordon's Mills, Georgia. 

On the morning of the 4th of May my regiment (or six companies 
of it,) was detached to guard the Division Supply and Ordnance 
Train, under my own command. 

At 6.30 A. M., we moved in the direction of Ringgold. Three com- 
panies of my detachment were deployed as flankers on the South 
side of, and at a distance of a hundred yards from the road. 

That evening I camped at Pleasant Grove Church, one and a half 
miles from Ringgold. 

On the moroing of May 6th, at 6 oclock a. m., I moved, with the 
brigade, and encamped for the night at Leed's Farm. 

At 2 o'clock on the morning of the 7th, I received marching 
orders and moved with the brigade, crossing Taylor's Ridge, at 
Gordon's Gap, at 11 oclock a. m., — our advance surprising the out- 
posts of the enemy, on the Ridge, and again near Gordon's Springs, 
— encamping that night near Villanow. 

We remained at this point until the morning of the 11th of May, 

when at six o'clock we moved south and into Snake Creek Gap. At 

12 o'clock we went into camp, and were soon actively engaged with 

the brigade in clearing, repairing and widening the road through the 

"Gap". 

Remained at this work until 12 o'clock, on the 12th, when we 

moved south to the opening of the Gap, where we encamped 

for the night. 
10 



182 SUPPLEMENTARY. 

On the 13tli, niOA^ed with the brigade towards Resaca, about three 
miles, where my command was formed in line of battle on the left 
of the VOth Ind., — which regiment was on the immediate left of the 
15th Army Corps — and skirmishers were thrown out, who advanced 
with the skirmishers of the 15th Corps, under a scattering fire of 
shells and musketry. No casualties occurred on this day. After 
dark, on the 13th, my command took position near the centre of the 
line, in front of the enemy's Avorks — relieving a part of the 14th 
Corps. The position of my line was on the crest of a ridge, skirting 
a flat, cleared field of bottom land, some eight hundred yards in 
width, through which ran a small muddy creek, parallel with 
my line, and about two hundred yards from it. The bluff opposite 
was occupied by tlie enemy, whose rifle-pits and entrenchments were 
plainly in view. 

Brisk skirmishing commenced at daybreak on the 14th, (my skir- 
mishers holding a fence at the foot of the ridge,) which continued 
until about 10 oclock, a. m,, when an order was received to cease 
firing. 

At about 11 oclock a. m., an order was received to advance the 
skirmish line as far as possible, with the view of creating a diver- 
sion. I therefore reinforced the skirmish line, with a view of hold- 
ing the former line, and advanced the front line to or near the 
creek above mentioned ; which line was held during the day. 

At about three o'clock p. m., my line of battle was advanced about 
forty yards, over the crest of the ridge, in accordance with orders, 
— which position was mantained imtil dark, when the command was 
Avithdrawn to its original position. 

My skirmish line was also relieved after dark, by detachments of 
the 105th and 129th Ill's regiments.. 

During the night, rifle-pits were constructed on the crest of the 
hill fronting my command. 

The casualties of this day were three men killed and nineteen 
wounded, of which number, one was killed and three were wounded 
in advancing the line of battle. The other casualties occurred on 
the skirmish line, mostly during the advance across the open field, 
at which time a murderous fire was opened by rebel sharpshooters, 
on the front and flanks. 

I have evidence that the enemy suffered severely from the fire 
of my skirmishers — especially from the fire of the Spencer Rifles. 

On the morning of the 1 5th my command Avas relieved by a por- 
tion of the 14th Corps, and marched to the left of the line of 



SUPPLEMENTARY. 183 

operations, wliere it was drawn up for an assault upon a formidable 
rebel position — consisting of a battery of four gmis, supported by a 
line of breastworks, in the rear. My line was formed in rear of the 
'70th Ind., which led the assault. The position of the brigade was 
on the northern slope of a hill opposite the enemy's fortifications. 

The charge was ordered at 11 o'clock a. m., and my command 
advanced down the southern slop^ of the hill upon which it had 
formed, thence across the Dalton and Rome road, through an open 
field under a most terrible fire, until it reached the enemy's battery 
and planted its colors upon the rebel works. Part of my command 
— members of Companies I and E — captured five prisoners, including 
the captain of the battery. A portion of my command also ad- 
vanced to the second line of works, but owing to some misunder- 
. standing, failed to carry it. 

The battery was held during the remainder of the day, although 
several attempts were made to recapture it. The casualties of this 
day were eighteen men killed, seventy-six wounded and one missing. 
Six of the wounded have since died. My color bearer was twice 
shot down, and my regimental banner received fifty shots in the 
folds and two in the staff. This was the first flag planted upon the 

fort. 

The line officers of my regiment behaved with conspicuous gal- 
lantry, with scarcely an exception, — all advancing to the front with 
promptness, and sharing in the capture of the battery; the majority 
remaining at the fort until dark, when they were relieyed by a regi- 
ment of Gen. Geary's command. 

The greater part of the 16th was spent in burying the dead. 

On the morning of the 19th my command was advanced in line of 
battle on the Adairsville road to near Cassville, my skirmishers be- 
ing thrown out in a semicircle around the front and left of the left 
flank of the Brigade. 

The regiment Avas at this time exposed to a fire of shells from the 
Battery of the enemy, and lost one man killed. 

The balance of the day was spent in maneuvering, in which no 
casualties occurred. 

The total loss of my command during the seven days, was twenty- 
two killed, ninety-six v»'ounded, and one missing. 

On May 20th, encamped with the Brigade, near Cassville, Georgia, 
and remained there until the morning of the 23d of May, when with 
the army I moved forward and crossed the Etowah River, encamping 
at night about one mile from the crossing. 



184 SUPPLEMENTARY. 

Slight skirmishing between our cavalry and the enemy in front, 
continued from four o'clock P. M., until nearly dark. 

On the morning of the 24th, at sunrise, the march Avas resumed 
in the direction of Dallas, and continued without obstruction until 
the afternoon of May 25th, when the 2d Division of the 20th A. C, 
encountered the enemy near Burnt Hickory. 

At 4 o'clock P. M., the Brigade moved in the direction of the 
enemy in line of battallion in mass, until it came under the enemy's 
fire, when, by order of Brig. Gen'l Ward, we were deployed in line 
of battle. 

Soon thereafter, my regiment, with the 70th Ind., was ordered to 
halt and hold itself in readiness to act as a reserve for the Brigade. 

In obedience to said orders I moved my regiment a short distance 
by the right flank, occupying a good position under the crest of the 
hill fronting the enemy. Here I remained, awaiting orders, until 
dark, when I was ordered by Maj. Gen'l Butterfield, Commanding the 
3d Division, to move forward with my regiment and make a vigo- 
rous attack upon the enemy's right wing. 

I immediately commenced a forward movement, but was soon 
directed by a member of the General's staff to halt until the 70 Ind., 
Vols., under Col. Harrison, approached, as he was also ordered for- 
ward. 

As Col. Harrison's command came up I again moved in the direc- 
tion of the enemy, passing over four lines of our troops lying upon 
the ground, until I arrived at a line of skirmishers sent forward 
from the 2d Brigade, (Col. Coburn's) where I halted, preparatory to 
making the attack. 

At this point I found that I was separated from the 70th Ind., and 
here I was informed by Col. Coburn that the enemy was very strong 
(six lines deep) in my immediate front, and not more than two hun- 
dred yards distant. 

At this juncture a member of Gen'l Butterfields staff appeared, 
who, upon being informed of the situation of affairs, directed me to 
remain in that position, and, if possible, (through the darkness of 
night) find Col. Harrison. 

I immediately sent my Adjutant to the rear for that purpose, and 
he found him about two hundred yards in that direction. 

He, having been put temporarily in command of the Brigade, sent 
me an order to return and join the Brigade, which I did, getting into 
position about 10 o'clock p. m. At two o'clock on the following 
morning I was ordered to move ray regiment to the right half a mile 



SUPPLEMENTARY. 185 

and relieve the 5th Conn. I arrived at that point at three o'clock, 
and found the ground occupied by them on the right of the 2d 
Division, (Gen'l Geary) and extending to the left of the 2d Brigade, 
Col. Coburn. The 5th Conn, had not constructed works of any 
kind, I therefore immediately commenced to build breastworks, ad- 
vancing my lines a little and occupying a semicircular ridge, con- 
vexing toward the enemy. 

At daybreak the enemy's sharpshooters opened a most galling fire 
upon my working parties, compelling me to stop work upon the for- 
tifications. I deployed one company of Spencer Rifles, under the 
command of Captain Sedwick, Co., E., and ordered him to drive the 
sharpshooters from ray front, which he performed handsomely, and 
at 8 A. M. he had driven them behind their works. At two o'clock 
it was reported to me that the enemy was bringing forward two 
pieces of artillery directly in my front. 

I immediately reinforced my skirmish line with eight picked 
sharpshooters, who hastened forward to such positions as to cover 
the guns sought to be put into position, soon compelling them to 
abandon their guns and retire beyond musket range. 

At 6 o'clock P. M., I was directed, by Gen'l Hooker, to take such 
measures as would prevent the enemy from putting the guns in 
position, or from removing them. 

In obedience thereto I sent forward, at dark, twenty sharp- 
shooters, with Spencer Rifles, to a rise of ground about seventy-five 
yards in front of the guns, and fifty yards in front of the enemy's 
breastworks, with instructions to keep a vigilant lookout during^the 
night, and at all hazards to prevent their removal. 

At 11 o'clock at night, some fifty of the enemy collected about the 
guns for the purpose of quietly removing them beyond range of our 
guns, when my sharpshooters opened on them with a rapidity of fire 
only to be obtained by the Spencer Rifles, scattering them like 
chaff before the wind, and leaving the guns in a position where 
neither party coxild obtain them, in which position we held them 
until 3 o'clock P. M., of the 27th, when we were relieved by a regi- 
ment of the 2d Division, and we rejoined the brigade on the right 
of the Corps, and were allowed to rest until dark, when we were 
ordered into the front lines and remained there until the 28th at 9 
o'clock A. M., when the brigade was relieved and retired to the rear 

for rest. i -n j 

Our loss during the four days operations amounted to tour killed 

and fourteen wounded. 



186 SUPPLEMENTARY. 

On the night of the 29th my regiment was ordered to move to the 
right half a mile for the purpose of closing a gap between the 20th 
and 15th Corps, where it remained until the 31st of May, when we 
were relieved by the 129th Ills., (Col. Case.) 

On the 1st day of June I moved, with the Brigade, to the left, 
and nothing of particular interest occurred until the 15th, when, at 
12 o'clock M., we received orders to strike tents, and moved at 12^ 
o'clock p. M., with the Corps still farther to the left in the direction 
of Big Shanty. At 2 p. m. the Brigade was halted and I was ordered 
to deploy my regiment as skirmishers, which order I immediately 
executed, holding four Go's in reserve, and advanced across an open 
field for twelve hundred yards, joining Geu'l Kuipe's Brigade of the 
1st Division, on the left, and the 2d Brigade of the 3d Division on 
the right. 

After advancing about one thousand yai'ds, and when within two 
hundred yards of a piece of woods, I received the fire of the enemy's 
sharpshooters, who appeared to be armed with a variety of arms, 
principally squirrel rifles. 

Still advancing, I drove the enemy's skirmishers and gained a 
position one hundred yards in the woods, where I ordered a halt 
and awaited orders. 

Here I was informed by Capt. Oliver, A. D. C. to Gen'l Butterfield, 
that the 105th Ills., had been sent forward to my support and was 
then in close proximity in my rear. 

I was ordered by Gen'l Butterfield to advance and feel of the 
enemy, ascertain his position and the strength of his works. 

Slowly, but steadily, my men advanced under a brisk fire of the 
enemy's skirmishers until I found myself within one hundred yards 
of their rifle pits, ^yhjch, froni their construction, were supposed to 
be a continuous line of breastworks. 

Yet undaunted, niy men continued to advance through the thick 
underbrush until we were within fifty yards of the enemy's works, 
which were then discovered to be rifle pits for skirmishers. 

This information ascertained, and learning, also, that the 105th 
Ills, was ordered to the right, leaving me no support, I ceased to 
advance and ordered my men to cease firing and keep under cover, 
and thus remained until 5 o'clock p. m. 

At this time the firing was resumed, and heavy skirmishing in my 
front caused me to fear lest my weak skirmish line would be over- 
whelmed. 



SUPPLEMENTARY. 187 

I immediately "communicated my fears to Gen'l Butterfield, not 
knowing where to find Gen'l Ward, Brigade Commander, as I had 
received no orders from him after commencing the advance. 

Gen'l Butterfield ordered the 105th Ills, to move by the left flank 
and take position on the left of my reserve. This movement was 
discovered by the enemy, who undoubtedly supposed it to be a pre- 
paration for an advance, as they retired from their riflle pits which 
were immediately taken possession of by our men, and liold by them 
vmtil the brigade arrived, (midnight) when we eonnneneed the con- 
struction of works, and at daylight, had a strong line of defense in 
our front. 

About 1 o'clock on the 16th of June I received a slight wound in 
the fleshy part of the thigh, while reconnoitering the enemy's posi- 
tion, at Gen'l Butterficld's request, which unfitted me for active duty 
in the field until the 10th of August, when I again reported for duty. 

My loss during the two days operations was thirteen wounded, 
including Capt. I. McManus (of Co. G.) and myself 

I beg leave to state that of the operations of my regiment during 
ray absence, I can only speak from the report of my Lieut. Col., who 
was in command during that period. 

On the 20th of June, Co. B, of my regiment, was deployed as skir- 
mishers in front of the lS6th New York Vols., of the 3d Brigade, 
losing on that day one killed and one wounded. On the 22d of 
June the Brigade was ordered forward in support of the 3d Brigade. 
Casualties of the day, three wounded. 

On the morning of July 3d my regiment, having the advance, was 
deployed in line of battle with two companies deployed as skirmish- 
ers under Capt. D. "W. Sedwiek, and moved forward in the direction 
of Marietta, encountering in our advance the rear guard of the 
enemy, or a portion of it, consisting of a thousand cavalry, with 
which a brisk skirmish was kept up by my skirmishers, driving the 
cavalry through the town of Marietta, when we were halted during an 
engagement between Captain Geary's battery and a battery of the 
rebels, after which we were moved forward — passing to the right of 
town. 

Nothing of further importance [occurred until the afternoon of 
the 20th of July, when we were deployed in line of battle ; my reg- 
iment holding the right of the Brigade and also of the Division, 
under the cover of a hill south of Peach Tree Creek. At 3.45 p. m., 
we were ordered forward by Col. Harrison, commanding 1st Brigade, 
to take a position on the crest of a hill in our front. 



188 SUPPLEMENTARY. 

The enemy was discovered advancing in heavy column, in a direct 
line toward the left of the Brigade, and moved directly in front of 
the 79th 0. V. I., and 129th Ills., and 70th Ind., the latter occupy- 
ing, on this occasion, the left of the brigade, the 105th Ills, moving 
forward in the rear, as a support, or reserve line — the shock falling 
heaviest on the 79th 0. V. I., and the 129th Ills. 

There being no enemy in our immediate front, we changed our 
position by wheeling slightly to the left, and opened upon the ad- 
vancing rebel colamn an enfilading tire, pouring volley after volley 
in quick succession — such as the Spencer Rifle only can give — until 
we had the proud satisfaction of seeing the enemy vanquished, and 
seeking safety in flight. 

From the favorable position of my regiment, during this san- 
guinary engagement we dealt upon our enemies severe punishment, 
with trifling loss to ourselves, losing two killed, and eleven wounded. 
Nothing of importance occurred from that time up to the 13th of 
August, when the lines were advanced a few rods, without any mo- 
lestation. 

Until the 25th of August the regiment lay in the advanced works, 

the brigade lying on the right of the Atlantic & Western R. R., the 
regiment in its usual place, second from the right. 

About the 17th, a truce between the pickets was agreed to, and 
during the remainder of our stay there, all was quiet. But one 
casualty occurred, and that was the result of imprudence, 

A member of Co. K ventured out too far from the rifle pits, and 
received a severe flesh wound in the face ; this was speedily aveng- 
ed, and all was again quiet. 

On the 25th of August, at 8 o'clock, in common with the remain- 
der of the Corps, the regiment evacuated its works, and during that 
night moved back to the Chattahoochie River bridge, a distance of 
six miles, where the brigade was held in reserve while the 1st 
Division posted itself securely on the eminences surrounding the 
bridge. 

On the 27th the regiment moved across the river and was posted 
in the rear of the extensive depots and corrals there, on the left of 
the 70th Ind., the companies distributed in the following order, Co's 
B, E, H, G in stockades (built by the rebels on their old line of 
works) about two hundred yards apart, Co's A, F, D, I and C occupy- 
ing a line of breastworks on the summit of a commanding hill to the 
right of the R. R., and Co. K in a stockade two hundred yards to the 
i eft of Co. C, and on the extreme left close along the R. R. 



SUPPLEMENTARY. 189 

The regiment remained in this position, doing very heavy picket 
and fatigue duty, until Sept. 16th, when it moved to Atlanta; there* 
with the brigade (except the 105th Ills,) it went into camp one mile 
southeast of the Court House, where it at present is, preparing a 
comfortable camp. 

I cannot close this report of operations of my command during 
the campaign, unparalleled for its duration and severity of labor, 
without expressing my profound satisfaction with the gallant conduct 
of the officers and men, who, actuated by the highest motives of 
patriotism, have borne its fatigues and exposures, performing long 
and rapid marches and laboring upon fortifications under the blister- 
ing rays of the sun, as well as during the pelting storm, night as 
well as day, often upon short rations, without a murmur ; always 
facing the enemy, never yielding an inch of ground, and at all times 
unshrinkingly facing the hazards and dangers of war. 

Respectfully, 

F. C. SMITH, 
Col. 102 III. Vols. 

A lEAF FROM OUR REGDIENTAL RECORD. 

■Vindication ojf LSent. Aharon Gr. Henry. 

BY LIEUT. COL. ISAAC McMANUS. 

(extract.) 

The nature of our duties at Lavergne, Tenn., rendered it neces- 
sary to mount the command and arm them with more efficient 
weapons. 

This involved a new kind of duty, viz : the pressing of horses and 
mules, and the training of the men to some extent in cavalry drill. 
To procure the necessary amount of stock was a work of great 
labor. Raids for this purpose were made in all directions, far and 
near, with greater or less success. 

It was during one of these raids that an incident occurred, long to 
be remembered by those connected with it. I refer to the burning 
of the house of one Thomas Greenfield, and the seizure of the 
property of one James Greenfield ; both claiming to be loyal citizens 
of the United States, and having protection papers from Maj. Gen, 
Rousseau — then commanding the Military District of Nashville. 

The troops engaged in this expedition were : Co. G — commanded 
by myself and Lieut. A. G. Henry-r-and Co. C, commanded by Capt, 
Shaw and Lieut. Jordan ; the entire detachment being subject to 
my orders, as I was the ranking officer. The instructions given me 



1 90 SUPPLEMENTARY, 

by Col. Smith were, in substance as follows: "Take stock from dis- 
loyjj.1 persons only, (except where loyal persons wish to dispose of 
such property to the government,) and for this purpose the following 
classes of persons shall be deemed disloyal: 1st. All persons 
residing within our lines who have not taken the oath of allegiance, 
in accordq.nce with existing orders. 2. All such persons as, having 
taken the oath, continue to harbor guerrillas, and furnish material 
aid and assistance to the rebellion." It was astonishing what a 
number of persons came within the limits of this order; especially 
^long the valley of Duck River, in Murray cQunty; where the trea- 
sonable propensities of the people had been encouraged by a 
Copperhead Colonel — then in command at Columbia. Such an 
inviting field of operations was not to be overlooked, and with as 
little delay as possible, I moved in that direction — determined to 
"clean out" the scoundrels, and deprive them at least of the means 
of rendering material aid to the rebellion. 

Hearing of a family of Greenfields, who were engaged in the 
patriotic (V) business of harboring guerrillas, it was thought advisa- 
ble to give them a call. The result proved the information correct, 
— trthree guerrillas were captured at the house of James Greenfield. 
Finding himself caught, and fearing the consequences, honest (?) Jim 
fell back on his loyalty — an old trick among rebels — and rushing up 
to Lieut. Henry thrust a protection paper in his face, demanding 
protection for himself and property. This was too niuch for that 
patriotic young man, whose soul burned with indignation at such 

duplicity. Looking the rebel full in the face, he said: " D- n 

you and your protection papers— ^you ought to be hung with them." 
This sentiment was heartily concurred in by every officer and man 
who understood the circumstances which called it forth. And 
although , the ^expression niade by Lieut. Henry was afterwards 
tortured into an insult to his highness. Gen. Rousseau, and was used 
to his damage by a court martial, composed of men who were 
EXCEKDiNixLY auxious to do their duty, every loyal, patriotic heart 
will exonerate him from all blame, and approve the sentiment that 
would hang a traitor and make a shroud of protection papers that 
had been wrung by dissimulation and treachery from a weak-headed 
General. A few moments later I rode up, and Mr. Greenfield, not 
to be diverted from his purpose, renewed his demand for protection, 
at the same time exhibiting his protection papers. Without reply- 
ing in words to his request, I ordered Serg't Reynolds to take Mr. 
Greenfield and place him under guard with the rest of the prisoners* 



SUPPLEMENTARY. 191 

and then proceeded to seize his property for the use of the govern- 
ment ; thus treating his protection papers with contempt, in actions 
if not in words, as the circumstances of the case evidently justified. 
It will appear from this that I fully endorsed all that Lieut. Henry 
had done, and went infinitely further in disregarding the farcical pro- 
tection of rebels and rebel property — laying a heavy hand on both. 

Passing thence to the plantation of Thomas Greenfield, who had 
been j harboring a gang of seven or eight guerrillas, for several 
months, as Ave were told, we found, concealed about his house, 
carbines, revolvers, fixed ammunition, govei'nment saddles and blan- 
kets, and such stores as thieving guerrillas had either captured or 
stolen from our men. This so aroused the indignation of the men, 
that when the column marched away, a few of them who remained 
behind applied a torch to the building, and the vile den was soon in 
ashes. This act, though unauthorized, was not to be wondered at 
when we consider the provocation. And now, after all is past, and 
the truth of history must be vindicated, it will seem strange that 
Lieut. Henry is almost the only sufferer. But although he has been 
shamefully abused, his record is that of a gentleman and a soldierj 
and as such, he^will ever be esteemed by the officers and soldiers 
whom he served. 



CONCLUDING NOTES. 

Owing to the limited space remaining unoccupied, several impor- 
tant items connected with the history of the regiment are unavoid- 
ably omitted. Statements of prisoners — including sketches by i\bner 
T. Morford of Co. E, and Corporal Geoi'ge S. Trego of Co. C — giving 
an account of their experience in rebel prisons — are crowded out. 

It will interest the members of the regiment to know that the 
rank of Brevet Major has recently been conferred upon two of our 
most worthy officers, viz: Capt. Dan W. Sedwick and Capt. Ed. H. 
Conger. The following is a copy of the order promoting Capt. Sed- 
wick : 

WAR DEPARTMENT, 

Washingtox, D. C, June 19th, 1865. 
Sir: 

You are hereby informed that the President of the United 
States has appointed you, for gallant and meritorious conduct during 
the war, a Major of Volunteers by Brevet, in the service of the 
United States, to rank as such from the 13th day of March 1865. 
Should the Senate at their next session advise and consent thereto, 
you will be commissioned accordinglv. 

EDWIN M. STANTON, 
Brevet Major Dan W. Sedwick, U. S. Vol. Sec'y of War. 



192 



SUPPLEMENTARY. 



A similar order was received by Brevet Major E. H. Conger. By 
faithful services both of these officers had earned the honor conferred 
upon them. The fact that others, equally worthy, failed to secure a 
like recognition of their merits, should cause no feeling of dissatis- 
faction. Titles are not objectionable, but better than all titles is the 
consciousness of duty well performed. 

In preceding pages the proper meed of praise has been in one or 
two instances inadvertantly withheld from officers who deserved 
special mention. An instance is recalled at this moment. Lieut. 
R. S. Peebles of Co. F, who was one of the first in the enemy's fort 
at Resaca, and who stood upon the earthworks in the midst of a 
shower of bullets, urging the men to hold their ground, is not men- 
tioned in the account of the battle. The "inevitable Bob" was of 
course in the thickest of the fight. 

Another name comes up in my mind, as I recall the bloody scenes 
of Resaca. That of 1st Serg't John Morrison, of Co. A, who was 
mortally wounded there. Serg't Morrison was entitled to a Com- 
mission as Lieutenant, long previous to that time. But his merits 
were not recognized, and another got the place which he had earned 
by his fidelity and courage. 

In the sketches of the great raids, special credit should have been 
awarded Lieut. A. H. Trego of Co., C, for the able manner in which 
he discharged the responsible duties of Assistant Adjutant General ; 
which position he filled from the time the Brigade left Atlanta until 
it was disbanded at Washington. 

Other equally important omissions have occurred. Many of the 
enlisted men — the private soldiers who did the real hard work of 
the war — won laurels which entitle them to enduring fame, but where 
so many were heroes it is impossible to make special mention of all. 




APPENDIX. 

FIELD AND STAFF AND COMPANY ROSTERS. 
ROLL OF THE FIELD AND STAFF. 

LIST OP MEMBERS MUSTERED OUT WITH THE REGIMENT. 

Bi-evet Brig. Geii'l, Franklin C. Smith, Oneida, 111.* — wounded at 

Pine Mountain. 
Major, Hiland H. Clay, Galesburg, 111. 

Surgeon, William Hamilton, 

Chaplain, Cornelius M. Wright, Keithsburg, 111. 
Quartermaster, Hobart Hamilton, 

RESIGNED. 

Colonel William McMurtrv, February, 1863. 
Lieut. Colonel James M. Mannon, Sept. 18G4. 
Major L. D. Shinn, at Stewart's Creek, Tenn., 1863. 

''' C. IL Jackson, July 9th, 1864. 
Surgeon D. B. Rice, at Stewart's Creek, 1863. 
Assistant Surgeon T. S. Stanway, August, 1864. 
1st Lieut, and Adjutant J. Pitman, Jan. 1863. 

" and R. Q. M! Francis H. Rugar, at Lavergne, 1863. 
Chaplain M. K. Tullis, at Gallatin, 1863. 

" Jesse E. Huston, Sept., 1864. 

TRANSFERRED. 

Assistant Surgeon, David P. Bigger, May, 1865, to 9th Ill's Infantry. 

MISSING. 
1st Lieut, and Adjutant Jacob H. Snyder, since May 16th, 1865. 

NON COMMISSIONED STAFF. 

MUSTERED OUT WITH THE REGIMENT. 

Serg't Major, Stephen F. Fleharty, Galesburg, 111. 

Q. M. Serg't, Clarence V. Shove, Kewanee, 111. 

Com. Serg't, Edward C. Courtney, Oneida, 111. 

Hospital Steward, James B. Knapp, Knoxville " — wounded near 

Atlanta. 
Allen V. B. Taylor, Principal Musician, Galesburg, 111. 
John W. Ames; 

DISCHARGED. 

Hospital Steward, John B. Shaw, at Gallatin, Tenn., 1863. 
Com. Serg't, G. Frank Clarke, at Lavergne, 1863. 

*Pre6ent Post Office Address. A 



II * APPENDIX. 



ROLL OF COMPANY "A." 

LIST OF ORIGINAL MEMBERS DISCHARGED WITH THE REGIMEKT. 

Captain, Theodore H. AndreAvs, Galesburg, III. 
1st Lieut., William H. Brown, Galesburg, 111 — wounded at Kegaca. 
1st Serg't, Adam N. Tate, Ionia, 111. 
Serg't James L. Moredock, " " 
" Hugh French, Henderson, 111, 
" Daniel B. Eandall, Viola, 111. 
" George W. Miller, Ionia, 111. 
Corporal, William C. Cashman, Ionia, III. 
Enoch W. Gentry, " 

" John T. Lawson, Galesburg, 111. 
" Andrew J. Bowlinger, Ionia, 111. 

George R. Hill, Oxford, 111. 
" Amos Crow% Abingdon, 111. 
James Rittenburg, Musician, Oxford, 111. 
William C. Wightman, Wagoner, Ionia, 111. 

PRIVATES. 

James B. Abbott, Ionia, 111. 

John C. Brown, Keithi^barg, 111. 

Thomas Brittingham, Henderson, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 

Crawford A. Bruner, " " 

Simon Burger, Abingdon, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 

Lyman S. C. Bailey, Cameron, 111. 

Benjamin W. Briles, Ionia, 111. 

Riley Brazzell, Eaglesville, Mo. 

George W. Crosby, Ionia, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 

Richard Dowell, 

Samuel Eicher, Woodhull, 111. 

Richard Foster, Ionia, 111. 

Henry M. Glass, " 

Patrick H. Gilgan, Henderson, 111. 

George Hopple, Cameron, 111. 

Henry Mingles, Ionia, III. 

James McCartney, Ionia, 111 — captured in S. C. — exchanged. 

Joseph Mann, Pope Creek, 111. 

Charles W. Mosier, Ionia, 111. 

Perry McLaughlin, Pope Creek, 111. 

Swan H. Olson, Galesburg, III. 

Andrew Pearson, Oquawka, 111. 

Daniel Richardson, Knoxville, 111. 

Alvin Richardson, Galesburg, 111 — accidentally wounded, June 6th, 

1864. 
Riley Short, Ionia, 111. 
Fielding E. Scott, Ionia, 111. 
William R. Terrill, Fddyville, Iowa. 
Albert G. Talbott, Ionia, 111. 
Otis B. Vanfleet, Galesburg, 111. 



APPEXDIX. 



KXLISTKD SuBSKQlJEXT TO OUQANIZATION' OK THE ilKOnfK\T. 



Ill 



John ^yalker, Ionia, III. 
Ransom A. Walker, Ionia, 111. 

RESIGXED. 

Capt. R. R. Harding, Jan., 1863. Capt. Robert W. (/allaghan, 
July 12th, 1863. 1st Lieut. Levi F. Gentry, Jan. 27th, 1863. 1st 
Lieut. M. L. Courtney, July 15th, 186-1. 2d Lieut. Charles M. Bar- 
nett, Jan. I9th, 1863. 

DIED. 

1st Serg't. John Morrison, July 3d, 186-1, of wounds received in 
action at Resaca. Corporal Eli Judd, of disease, at Chattanooga, 
July 27th, 186-1. Corporal Hugh liutterfield, killed at Resaca. 
Wm. H. Augustine, of disease, at Gallatin, Tenn., Feb. 10th, 1863. 
Alfred Boyd, of disease, at Gallatin, Jan. 15tli, 1863. Robert T. 
Carl, of disease, at Gallatin, Jan. 7th, 1863. Albert P. Cooper, 
killed at Resaca. Ebenezer Daggett, of disease, at Gallatin, Jan., 
22d, 1863. John Edwards, of disease, at Nashville, Dec. 18th, 1862. 
John K. Holmes, of disease, at Mill Creek, Tenn., Xov. 3d, 1863. 
Orlando Kinney, of disease, at Scottsville, Ky., Nov. 20th, 1863. 
William Miller, of disease, at Gallatin, Jan. 28tli, 1863. Lawrence 
Nash, killed at Resaca. Franklin Offut, of disease, at New Albany, 
Ind. Nov. 10th, 1862. Charles H. Rodgers, of disease, at Frankfort, 
Ky., Oct. 21st, 1862. George A. Rodgers, at Louisville, Jan. 10th, 
1864:, of disease. Arthur F. Sabin, killed at Resaca. Oliver N. 
Tyler, of disease, at Gallatin, Jan. 17th, 1863. Elias N. Vestal, 
of disease, at Bowling Green, Ky., — no date given. Jacob A. Wal- 
ton, of disease, at Gallatin, Tenn., Jan. I7th, 1863. 

DISCHARGED. 

Corporal Calvin Martin, Jan. 21st, 1863. Wm. T. Anderson, March 
16th, 1863. Wm. H. Black, Feb. 17th, 1863. Solomon Brittingham, 
March 12th, 1863. Ambrose D. Blake, Jan. 16th, 1863. Wm. H. 
Crandall, March 12th, 1863. Neally Daggett, Sept. 30th, 1864, on 
account of wounds received at Resaca. Thomas G. French, Jan. 
18th, 1863. Christopher C. Fulton, Oct., 1864, to accept commission 
in Colored Regiment. Thomas A. Greenwood, Nov. 22d, 1862. John 
A. Miller, Jan. 18th, 1863. William Morris, Jan. 20th, 1863. James 
C. Routh, Oct. 28th, 1864. Asa Richardson, Jan. 29tli, 1863. Cyrus 
Weaver, Dec. 9th, 1862. John Wells, March 4th, 1863. 

TRANSFERRED. 

Allen Y. B. Taylor, to Non. Com. Staff. Rigdon B. Walker, to 
Veteran Reserve Corps. 



IV APPKNDIX. 



ROLL OF COMPANY " B." 

LIST OF ORIGINAL MEMBERS DISCHARGED WITH THE REOIMRNT 

Capt., William M. Armstrong, Utah, 111 — wounded at AA^erysboro 

1st Lieut., Ambrose Stegall, Utah, 111. 

Ist Serg't., John W. Terpening, Utah, 111. 

Serg't, John J. Armstrong, Utah, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 

" Alonzo Beswick, Utah, 111 — wounded at Peach Tree Creek. 
•' Michael Dougherty, Utah, 111. 
Michael Rees, Utah, 111. 
Corporal Dwight Corning, Galesburg, 111. 
" Orrin E. Beswick, Utah, 111. 
" James Walton, Princeton, Pa. 
" William B. Armstrong, Utah, 111. 
" Ezra D. Bugbee, Utah, III. 
" Charles B. Parsons, Utah, 111. 

Elisha E. Russell, Utah, 111. 
" James M. Black, Galesburg, III. 
John Hodges, Musician, Galesburg, 111. 
Samuel R. Curtis, Wagoner, Utah, 111. 

PRIVATES. 

David Artlip, Centre, Iowa. 

John H. Brown, Galesburg, 111. 

Daniel R. Boyd, Utah, 111 — wounded at Peach Tree Creek. 

Jeremiah Badger, Rio, 111. 

Thomas P. Bruington, Galesburg, 111. 

Samuel Church, North Henderson, HI. 

Walter S. Chapin, Oquawka, 111 — captured before Atlanta — cxch'd. 

John E. DeWitt, Duck Creek, 111. 

Lemmon DeWitt, " " " — wounded near Franklin. Ky. 

Thomas Davis, Galesburg, 111. 

Morton M. Durand, " " — on detached service during last year. 

Geo. W. Dunn, Utah, 111 — wounded near Franklin, Kv. 

William D. Graham, Utah, 111. 

John Gregg, Galesburg, 111 — captured near Averysboro, — exch'd- 

Simeon G. Heflin, Utah, 111. 

Andrew Kiser. Utah, 111. 

liobert Maxwell, Galesburg, HI, 

Newton Nelson, '■ ■' 

William H. Rees, Monmouth, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 

Gideon D. Russell, LTtah, 111 — wounded at Kenesaw Mountain. 

Thomas M. Snyder, Aledo, 111 — wounded at Averysboro, N. C. 

James W. Snyder, Aledo, 111. 

George Sherman, Monmouth, 111. 

James Sohoman, Galesburg, 111. 

Manuel Trout Henderson, 111 — wounded at Peach Tree Creek. 

Samuel Terpening, Utah, 111. 

Richard B. Woolley, Henderson, 111. 



= APPENDIX. V 

William R. Wimmer, Ionia, III. 
Benjamin Webber, Henderson, 111. 
Lewis A. Woods, Utah, 111. 

ENLISTED SUBSEQUENT TO ORGANIZATION OF REGIMENT 

Lorenzo D. Chapin, Oquawka, 111. 

John Walton, Princeton, Penn., — wounded at Resaca. 

Thomas St. (Jeorge, Utah, III. 

John Armstrong, Utah, 111. 

Richard Brown, I'tah, 111. 

Albert Smith, " " 

Nathan A. Terpening, Utah, 111. 

BESIGXED. 

Captain Elisha C. Atchison, April 9th, 1863. 1st Lieut. James C. 
Beswick, Jan. 14th, 1864. 

DIED. 

David Ilocker, of disease, at New Albany, Ind., Nov. 4th, 1862. 
Josiah M. Kellogg, killed at Resaca. John Rich, of disease, at Gal- 
latin. Ilenson Blake, of wounds received in action near Franklin, 
Ky — died April 28th, 1863. Stephen Cussins, killed at Resaca. 
Charles W. Fort, died of disease, while at home on furlough. 
Leonard Harsh, drowned in Stewart's Creek, Tenn., July 2d, 1863. 
John Hewson, of disease, while at home on furlough, Feb. 15th, 
1865. Charles Hollenbcck, of disease, March 23d, 1864, at Look- 
out Valley. Thomas J. Maxey, killed in action near Kenesaw Moun- 
tain, June 21st, 1863. Harvey Rodgers, of disease, at Gallatin, Tenn., 
Jan. 1st, 1863. Henry Reynolds, of disease, at Gallatin, Tenn., Dec, 
1862. Lyman B. Straw,' killed at Peach Tree Creek. Jacob 
Snavelv, of wounds received in action near Franklin, Ky., April 28th, 
1863. 

DISCHARGED. 

1st Serg't John B. Gregg, Serg't Henry C. Miles, Corporal Lewis 
Trout, David Ingersoll, (Musician.) Henry B. Burton, Thomas M. 
Hite, James B. Dunn, Elias K. Ferris, Fielding F. Miles, John M. 
Miles, Thatcher Porter, Robert St. George, Daniel B. Stivers, at 
Gallatin, Tenn. John W. Brown, at Frankfort, Ky. Alfred Brown, 
at New Albany, Ind. James Donnelly, on account of wounds, at 
Springfield, III, Oct. ^th, 1864. Francis M. Dufify, Andrew Peterson, 
at Smyrna, Tenn. Washington G. Sallee, at Jeffersonville, Ind. 
Daniel S. AVeiser, Bowling Green, Ky. 

TRANSFERRED. 

Geo. Coziah, to Vet. Vel. Engineers. 

DESERTED. 

Samuel C. Davis, March, 1863. 



VI APPENDIX. 



ROLL OF COMPANY "C." 

LIST OF ORIGINAL MEMBERS DISCHARGED WITH THE REGIMEXT. 

Captain, Almond Shaw, Centre Ridge, 111. 

Ist Lieut., Alfred H. Trego, Galesburg, Ill—wounded at Pine Moun- 
tain, and at Averysboro; 
2d Lieut., Byron Jordan, Rural, 111. 
1st Serg't, George W. Gregg, Centre Ridge, 111. 
Serg't, Sampson M. Tenney, Pre-emption, 111. 

" Henry Bridgford, Richland Grove — wounded at Resaca. 
" Reading L. Carver, Pre-emption, 111 — wounded at Resaca, 
" Brainard Vance, Pre-emption, III. 
Corporal Phoenix R. Briggs, Richland Grove, 111. 

" John H. Lippincott, — wounded at Resaca. 

" George S. Trego, Centre Ridge, 111 — captured near Cheraw> 

S. C. — exchf^nged. 
Corporal James M. Shull, Centre Ridge, 111. 

" Charles L Mclntvre, Hamlet, 111. 

" William J. Long', Rural, 111. 

" Wilford Pitman, Pre-emption, 111. 

" Lester H. Cooper, Hamlet, 111. 
Thomas Merryman, Musician, Centre Ridge, III. 

PRIVATES. 

Thomas Allely, Rural, 111. 

Theodore Asquith, Hazlitt, 111. 

Richard B. Barnes, Geneseo, 111. 

James F. Barnett, Centre Ridge, 111, 

Christian F. Bharinger, Richland Grove, III, 

James M. Beardsley, Rock Island, 111 — captured at Bentonville, — 

exchanged. 
David Beck, Richland Grove, 111. 
Christian Bloom, " " " 

Louis Bloom, Richland Grove, 111 — captured Nov. 15th, 1864 — 

escaped next day. 
William Blackfan, Orion, III. 

Manuel M. Briggs, Richland Grove, 111 — wounded at New Hope Ch, 
Samuel G. Chaney, Centre Ridge, 111. 
James Cottenburg, Richland Grove, 111. ' 

Jacob Clause, Richland Grove, 111. 
Wm. H. Cooper, Hamlet, 111. 
William E. Davis, Centre Ridge, 111. 
George Eckley, Centre Ridge, 111. 

Ed. L. Emerson, Keithsburg, El — captured Jan., 1863 — exchanged. 
Samuel B. Ewing, Orion, 111. 
James Gorman, Perry ton, 111. 
Horace J. Gridley, Hamlet, 111. 
Louis Hetzel, Richland Grove, III, 
Nathaniel Hnmor, Rural, 111. 



APPENDIX. VII 

Charles Joseph, Rock Island, 111 — wounded at Averysboro' and cap- 
tured near Goldsboro' — exchanged. 

Jacob Krause, Richland Grove, 111. 

Charles J. Lawson, Centre Ridge, 111— wounded at Averysboro'. 

Joseph Littletield, Centre Ridge, III— wounded at Resaca. 

Harvey McElhinny, " 

Matthew H. C. McElhinny, Centre Ridge, 111. 

Freeman Merryman, Centre Ridge, 111— rwounded at Resaca. 

.John H. Martin, Centre Ridge, 111. 

Gottlob Maier, Richland Grove, 111. 

Adam Mauckor, Centre Ridge, 111. 

Albion Nichols, Hamlet, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 

Charles W. Norman, Centre Ridge, 111 — captured near Louisville, 
Georgia — exchanged. 

John P. Olson, Paxton, 111 — wounded at Resaca, 

David Pfitzenmaier, Richland Grove, 111. 

Joseph M. Piersol, Rural, 111. 

Joseph N. Roberts, Centre Ridge, 111. 

Isaiah N. Rhodenbaugh, Centre Ridge, III 

Frederick Schurr, Richland Grov'6, 111. 

Peter Smith, Richland Grove, 111. 

John Smith, 

Henry W. Suter, Centre Ridge, 111 — wounded at Resaca, and cap- 
tured near Louisville, Ky., — exchanged. 

Warner Twining, Pre-emption, 111. 

Gideon M. Tomlinson, Richland Grove, 111. 

Thomas AYilson, Pre-emption, 111. 

Joseph White, Richland Grove, 111. 

William E. Wallace, Rural, 111 — wounded at Resaca. , 

Franklin M. Weaver, Keithsburg, 111. 

Wilford J. Ungles, " • ♦'—captured Nov., 1864— excli'd. 

ENLISTED SUBSEQUENT TO ORGANIZATION OF REGIMENT. 

Stephen A. Bartlett, Richland Grove, 111. 

Charles T. Blackfan, Orion, 111. 

John J. Brice, Centre Ridge, 111. 

Edwin T. Jordan, Rural, 111. 

Gilbert A. Jordan, " " . • 

James G. Love, Centre Ridge, 111. 

Alexander McKav, Rock Island, 111. 

William McGill, Rural, 111. 

James Marshall, Richland Grove, 111. 

Lewis N. Peyton, Centre Ridge, 111. 

William Parks, 

Valentine Smith, Rock Island, 111. 
Harrison Trego, Centre Ridge, 111. 
Alfred R. Tomlinson, Richland Grove, 111. 
William W. Vansant, Centre Ridge, 111. 
Thomas H. White, Rock Island, 111. 



VIII APPENDIX. 



RESIGNED. 

Captain F. Shedd, April Gth, 1863. Lient. Watson C. Trego, Nov. 
18th, 1862. 

DIED. 

Serg't Geo. W. Allen, of disease, at Gallatin, Tenn., May 7th, 1863. 
Serg't I, N. Roberts, of disease, at Gallatin, March, 4th, 1863. 
Charles Anderson, of disease, at Gallatin, Tenn., Dec. 15th, 1862. 
Francis M Freeman, killed at Resaca. 

Henry Ilerr, of disease, while at home on furlough, June, 1863. 
George H. Huffman, of disease, at Gallatin, Tenn., Jan. 6th, 1863. 
Edmund Kinsey, killed at Resaca. Thomas B. South, of disease, at 
Gallatin, Jan. 4th, 1863. George Bharinger, of disease, at New York 
City, 1865. 

DISCHARGED. 

Serg't Rodney C. Manning, Sept. 12th, 1864, on account of wounds 
received at the battle of Resaca. George Bressmer, Dec. 16th, 1863. 
Henry G. Cooper, Oct. 7th, 1864, on account of wounds received at 
Resaca. Myron N. Jordan, Jan. 15th, 1863. Major McMullen, Jan. 
15th, 1863. James Spivey, May 9t\f, 1863. Leonard Stark, June 
20th, 1864. Jacob R. Trego, Jan. 15th, 1863. Jacob Robb, Feb., 
1863. William Thorpe, at Bowling Green, Kentucky, 1863. 

TRANSFERRED. 

Corporal S. F. Fleharty, to Non. Com. Staff. James H. Jackson, to 
Pioneer Corps. Clinton Olin, to Vet. Reserve Corps. Jason E. 
Young, to Pioneer Corps. Chas. Pierce, to Vet. Reserve Corps. 

DESERTED. 

Jonas Swab, April 20th, 1863, at Gallatin, Tenn. 



ATPiOXDIX. 



IX 



JU)LL OF COMPANY " 1) " 

LIST OF ORIGINAL MEMBERS DISCHARGED WITH THE UEOIMKNT. 

Captain, Orville B. Matteson, Galesbiirg; 111 — wounded at Arerys- 

boro'. 
1st Lieut. Irving L. Clay, Galesbui-g, 111. 

1st Serg't, Ozias C. Sprague, Bushnell, 111 — wounded at Averysboro' 
Serg't, Rowley Page, Galesburg, 111. 
" Hiram A. Drake, Galesburg, 111. 
" William A. Bell, Oneida, 111. 
Corporal Silas Area, Wataga, 111 — wounded at Resaea. 

" Frank L. Barnhisel, Galesburg, 111. 

" William Dunlap, Woodhull, 111. 

" Augustus Sherman, Galesburg, 111 — wounded at Xew Hope 

Church — captured in North Carolina, — exchanged. 
Corporal Edward A. Hulick, Virgil, 111. 

" Charles M. Castle, Knoxville, 111. 
William M. Cone, Galesburg, 111. 
Benj. F. Hackett, Wagoner, Prairie City, 111. 

PRIVATES. 

William Allen, Muscatine, Iowa. 

Reuben B. Anderson, Galesburg, 111. 

William J. Bing, Galesburg, 111. 

Elisha Billings, Oxford, 111 — captured in South Carolina — exchanged. 

Robert Billings, Oxford, 111 — captured in North Carolina — exchanged. 

Philetus G. Burch, Knoxville, 111. 

Hiram Boon, (xalesburg, 111. 

Thomas M. Bell, Galesburg, 111. 

Lewis C. Currier, Prairie City, 111. 

John Conley, Woodhull, 111. ' 

Ario W. Davison, Galesburg, 111. 

Charles Fast, Virgil, 111. 

Chai'les L. Groscup, Galesburg, 111. 

Frank Hilton, Galesburg, 111. 

Charles L. Huestis, " " captured in North Carolina — exchanged. 

AVilliam Hills, 

Sydney B. Henry, Bushnell, 111. 

Kindred Johnson, Galesburg, 111. 

John Kite, *' 

Moses J. Keller, 

John J. Kipp, Bushnell, 111. 

Franklin Letts, Woodhull, 111. 

Robert N. Lester, Galesburg, HI. 

Joseph E. Lester, " " 

Frans Maul, " " wounded at Kenesaw Mountain. 

Daniel T. Page, " " wounded at Resaea. 

Edmund M. Pugh, " " 

Era'^tus W. Rhykert, " 



X APPEXDIX. 

Jos. H. Rhykert, Galesburg, Til. 

Albert il. Stoddard, Prairie City, 111., captured near Goldsboro — 

exchanged. 
Josiab P. Spencer, Hinckley, Ohio, wounded at Resaca. 
Lewis G. Strong, Osceola, 111. 
James Strow, Knoxville, 111. 
John 0. Smith, Bushnell, 111. 
Samuel Taylor, Prairie City, 111. 
George W. Turner, ^Yoodhull, 111. 

ENLISTED SUBSEQUENT TO ORGAXIZATIOX OF REGIMENT. 

Albert B. Xixon, Musician, Woodhull, 111. 
Henry C. Castle. Knoxville, III. 
Dennison Randall, *' " 

Dennison P. Randall, " " 

RESIGNED. 
Captain Horace H. Wilsie, April 8, 1863. 

PIED. 

.Tames "VThite, of disease, at Stewarts' Creek, Tennessee, Aug. 9th, 
lSfi.3. Elias E. Champlin, killed at Resaca. John Barker, of dis- 
ease, at Wauhatchie, Tenn., April, 1864. Jesse H. Marble, of dis- 
ease, at Gallatin, Tenn., Jan. 20th, 1863. Eugene Corkins, of wounds 
received in action near Kenesaw Mountain, June 22d, 1864 — died 
Aug. 4th, 1864. 

DISCHARGED.* 

Corporal James R. Randall, Corporal Joel E, Ragland, John D. 
Babcock. Wm. E. Canfield, Thomas Doyle, William Doyle, Jacob M. 
Grimes, Wni. B. Hunt (on account of wounds). John Kite, Sen. 
Timothy Page, Hosea Rounds, Isaiah Tompkins, Wm. Tribble, Lewis 
Tupper-, isaav D. Young. 

TRANSFERRED. 

Captain Hiland H. Clav, bv promotion to position of Major. Lieut. 
J. B. Xixon, to 17th U. S. c! L Serg't Corvden D. Hendrvx, to 17th 
r. S. C. L F. G. Daggett, to 107th U. S. C. L Nicholas" G. Chese- 
bro, to Carr's Brigade." John W. Ames, to Xon. Com. Staff. Geo. 
W. Chamberlain, to 1st Tenn. Artillery. Larkin B. Ellis, to V. V. 
Engineers. ^Ym. R. Hendryx, to Mississippi Marine Brigade. John 
H. Lippy, do. T. J. McClurg, to Veteran Reserve Corps. 

DESERTED. 
Geo. W. Doyle, Sept. 6th, 1862. Hugh Lavery, Sept. 16th, 1862. 
♦No date given. 



APPENDIX. XI 



ROLL OF COMPAXY "E." 

LIST OF ORIGIXAL MEMBERS DISCHARGED WITH THE REGIMENT. 

Brevet Major. Dan W. Sedwiok, Pope Creek, IIL 

1st Lieut., Thomas G. Brown, " " " 

1st Serg't, Jonathan E. Laffertv, North Henderson 111. 

Serg't, Thomas Simp.son, " " " lost left arm 

in battle of Avervsboro'. 
" John T. Morfor'd, Ionia, 111. 

" Jno. Tidball, Pope Creek, 111 — wounded at Xew Hope Church. 
" Allen Dunn, Xorth Henderson, 111. 
Corporal, Henry W. Mauek, Pope Creek, III. 

" Robert Godfrey, Xorth Henderson, 111. 

" Cornelius Brown, Pope Creek, III. 

" Simeon Rothrock, " '• " lost right eye in action 

at Xew Hope Church. 

" Thomas Barhan, " '' 

" James C. Middaugh " '' " wounded at Averysboro'. 
William H. Dickie, Musician, Xorth Henderson, 111. 

PRIVATES. 

"William Artraan, Pope Creek, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 

Philip T. Bridger, " 

Henry Banks, Xorth Henderson, 111 — wounded at Xew Hope Church. 

John H. Bentz, Sunbeam, III. 

Abram J. Carmichael, Xorth Henderson, 111. 

Edward Chilson, Pope Creek, 111. 

Geo. W. Edwards " 

Elijah Gilbert " " " 

Charles Hartsell " 

John Laughhead, Xorth Henderson, 111. 

James M. Lee " " " 

James H. Laflferty " " 

Stephen D. Lethco, Pope Creek, 111. 

Francis M. Morford, " 

Abner T. Morford, " " " captured at Vinings, Ga., Oct., 

1864; exchanged, April, 1865, 
Jonathan P. Morrison, Xorth Henderson, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 
Henry S. Middaugh, Pope Creek, 111 — wounded at X'ew Hope Church. 
Hiram T. Morford, " " " womided near Atlanta. 
William H. Morford, Ionia, 111. 
James H. McKnight, Xorth Henderson, 111. 
Richard H. McGee, Sunbeam, 111. 
Henry McXeal, Pope Creek, 111. 
Leslie Patterson, Sunbeam, 111. 
Joseph Patterson, Xorth Henderson, 111. 
Robert Ross, Sunbeam, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 
Edward M. Shearer, North Henderson, 111. 



XII 



AITENDIX. 



David R, Simpson, North Henderson, 111. 

William L. Stewart, " " 

William R. Simpson, " 

Amos Wright, Pope Creek, 111. 

Richard Wright, '' " " 

John H. Wiley, North Henderson, HI. 

Reuben Wiley, " " " wounded at Resaoa. 

Robert Wilson, " " " wounded at (ioigotha Church. 

Cilbcrt Zend, " " " wounded at Resaca. 

ENLISTED SUBSEQUENT TO ORGANIZATION OF THE REGIMENT. 

Matthew C. Boggs, North Henderson, 111. 

RESIGNED. 

Capt. Thomas Likelv, April 2.5th, 1863. 2d Lieut. John Allison' 
March 5th, 1864. 

DIED. 

Serg't Albert C. Bridger, of disease, at Gallatin, Tenn., Dec, 8th, 
1862. Corporal W. T. Sevits, killed at Lawtonville, S. C, February 
2d, 1865. Richard Brown, of disease, at Gallatin, Jan. 3d, 1863. 
Peter F. Cook, killed at Resaca. J. B. Carmichael, of wounds 
received in action at New^ Hope Church, at Chattanooga, June 4th, 
1864. Seth Gravatt, of disease, at Gallatin, 1863. Michael Oswalt, 
of wounds received at Resaca, at Nashville, Tenn., June 29th, 1864. 
J. C. Simpson, of wounds received at Lawtonville, at Fayette- 
ville, N. C, March 14th, 1865. Chauncey Royce, of disease, at Gal- 
latin, Jan. 2d. 1864. 

DISCHARGED. 

Ist Serg't, S. R. Moore, at Gallatin, Tenn. 1st Serg't, W. J. Abdill, 
July 1st, 1863, to accept commission in colored regiment. Corporal 
Henry M. Carmichael, at Gallatin. W. P. Morgan, at Stewart's 
Creek. D. T. Porter, at Camp Butler, 111. William B. Cullison, at 
Quincy, HI., Feb. 22d, 1865. H. T. Bridger, at Gallatin, Tenn., 
Andrew Boger, at Louisville, Ky. Isaac Carson, Keokuk, Iowa, Dec. 
12th, 1864, lost right hand at New Hope Church. Thomas Godfrey, 
at Gallatin, Tenn. Orange Lucas, at Bowling Green, Ky., 1863. 
Samuel Lyon, at Jeffersonville, Ind., 1862. Nelson Morey, at Spring- 
field, 111., Dec. 9th, 1864. Geo. T. Nevius, at Gallatin, Tenn. Robert 
Neeley, at Gallatin, Tenn. Peter Peterson, Nashville, Tenn. F. T. 
Porter, Alexander Patterson and W. B. Torbet, at Gallatin, Tenn. 

MISSING. 

John A. rMcCutchen — was seen to fall at Resaca, but could not be 
found after the battle was over. 



APPENDIX. XIII 



ROLL OF COMPANY " F." 

LIST OF ORIGINAL MEMBERS DISCHARGED WITH THE REGIMENT. 

Captain, Geo. W. Woollev, Oneida, III. 

1st Lieut., Robert S. Peebles, " 

1st Serg't, Geo. W. Pliimnier, Henderson, 111., wounded at Kenesaw 

Mountain. 
Serg't Myron Nelson, " " 

" Stephen Levalley, Victoria, 111. 
*' Isaac A. Hardenbrook, Centre Ridge, 111. 
" James K. Weir, Abingdon, 111. 
Corporal, Oscar F. Presson, Galesburg, 111. 
" John H. Champion, Henderson, 111. 
" Alfred B. Firkins, Wataga, 111 — -woUnded at Resaca. 

John S. Hall, Oxford, HI. 
" Joseph Inick, Henderson, 111 — captured near Averysboro, 
exchanged. 

" Lorenzo L. Maxson, Oxford, 111 — womided at Resaca. 
'* Joseph Smith, Henderson, 111 — wounded near Atlanta. 
Ei'i Bennett, Musician, Henderson, 111. 

PRIVATES. 

Alfred C. Briggs, Henderson, 111. 

Aaron B. Brooks, u u 

Oliver Burton, Galesburg, 111 — wounded at Kenesaw Mountain. 

David Bair, Oxford, 111 — Avounded at New Hope Ch. 

James Cubbage, Henderson, 111 — wovmded at Resaca. 

Isaac C. Durdan, 

Joseph Driffle, Ionia, 111. 

Thomas Dean, Henderson, 111 — wounded at Kenesaw Mountain. 

Daniel Dean, 

George Dew, " " 

William Epperson, Oxford, 111. 

Joseph Fulton, 

Caleb J. Green, Oneida, 111. 

Caleb Green, " " 

John G. Gulliher, Knoxville, 111. 

Martin V. Key, Henderson, 111. 

William Linn, Oxford, 111 — wounded at Savanah. 

James H. Murphy, " " 

Matthew O'Brien, Henderson, 111. 

Thomas H. Pool, 

Hiram Rusk, North Prairie, 111. 

Michael Rafferty, Henderson, 111. 

Enoch Rush, Oxford, 111. 

John Swancer, " " . 

Frederick Stegall, Henderson, 111. 

David Wilson, " " 

Thomas Welch, Galesburg, 111. 

William Westerdale, Oneida, 111. 

Michael Young, Henderson, 111. 



XIV APPENDIX. 



ENLISTKD StJBSEQTIENT TO ORGANIZATION OF THE REC4IMENT. 

Charles N. Bond, Galesburg, 111 — taken prisoner near Cheraw, S. C. 

George Bennett, Henderson, 111. 

Hiram C. Dawson, Mount Sterling, 111. 

Joseph H. Dredge, Korth Prairie, 111. 

John Edlenian, Henderson, 111. 

SAvan Erickson, " " wounded at Resaca. 

Samuel Holton, " " 

James H. Hill, 

Richard MaxAvell, '* " wounded at Resaca. 

James F. Maxwell, " " 

Peter McGuire, " " 

William H. Shepherd, " 

Geo. G. Sperry, " " wounded at Averysboro, N. C, 

Hosea Wiley, " " 

RESIGNED. 

1st Lieut. Orlando J. Sullivan, at Gallatin. 2d Lieut, Ethan A. 
Cornwall, at Scottsville Ky. 

DIED. 

f^ 1st Serg't Thomas Merrick, of wounds received near Vinings, Ga. 
John B. Gorman, at Nashville Tenn. Vandorn iVniy, of disease, at 
Gallatin. William Drury, of disease, at Frankfrrt, Ky. Nelson 
Gokey, of disease, at Mound (Mty, 111. Paul Ilnl.ri, of disease, at 
Nashville. Thomas ^IcDermott, and Andrew Rcm', of disease, at 
Gallatin Tenn. 

DISCHAPvGED. 

Chas. I. Epperson, A\'m. Tin)berlake, at Gallatin. John \V. Heare, 
Thomas P. Epperson, Martin Robertson, John A. Bueschel, Stroud 
Vanmetre, Levi Casson, Levi W. F'airbanks, Charles Meadows, Au- 
gustus Morse, John M. Morse, Pat. McDermott, John Rusk^Gco. A. 
Spence, Laland Salts, Ceylon Smith, and David Young, (time and 
place not given.) Asa II. Jones, at Lavergne, Tenn. 

TRANSFERKED. 

Capt. C. H. Jackson, by promotion, to position of Major. Amos 
K. Tullis, promoted to Chaplain. 

DESERTED. 

Asa H. AVarner, Hosea Fuller, Joseph Kernell, William Nation 
and David Rusk, on the march from Frankfort to Bowling (Tlreen,Ky. 
William D. Roundtree and Stephen H. Waters, in front of Atlanta, 
Atig. 14th, 1864. 



APPEN^DIX. XV 



ROLL OF COMPANY " G." 

LIST OF ORCGINAL MEMBKRS DESClIARrrED WITH THK REfUMEVT. 

Captain Isaac McMaiius, Keithsburg, 111., — Commissioned Lieut. Col., 

wa3 wounded at Golgotha Cliurch, near Pine Mountain. 
William IL Bridgford, Millersburg, 111., — Commissioned as Captain. 
1st Serg't Lemuels. Guftev, Perrvton, 111., — Commissioned 1st Lieut. 
Serg't Elisha J. Grandstaff, 

''"^ R. W. Kile, Keithsburg, III. 
" James H. MeCommon, Millersburg, 111. 
" John C. Cummins, Ohio Grove, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 
Corporal Lewis Wilkinson, Abington, 111. 

" Oliver M. Goldsbury, Keithsburg, 111. 

" William M. Bunting, Millersburg, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 

William F. Cochran, 
" Samuel McHard, Perryton, 111. 
" Squire W. Butcher, Abington, 111. 
" James H. Fox, 
Joseph 0. Calhoun, Musician, Keithsburg, 111 — wounded at the Kulp 
House. 

PRIVATES. 

Walter Brown, Suez, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 

James B. Brewer, Keithsburg, 111. 

Charles P. Brock, 

Roderick Cameron, Abington, 111. 

John A. ConnoUey, Keithsburg, 111. 

Peter Cameron, " " wounded at Resaca. 

John Dunn, Ohio Grove, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 

Martin V. Eckley, Keithsburg, 111. 

Frederick Friebele, Burlington. Iowa — wounded at R(>saca and at 

Bentonville. 
John B. Felton, Millersburg, III — wounded at Resaca. 
Alexander Glasgow, Keithsburg, 111. 
William Gorman, Perryton, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 
William P. Hardin, Keithsburg, 111. 
Wesley Hunt, Millersburg, III. 
Jacob E. Hauck, Perryton, 111. 
John A. Hicks Edgington, 111. 
Alvah Jay, Abington, 111. 
William U. Johnston, Ohio Grove, III. 
Dexter M. King, Millersburg, 111. 
Michael R. Murphy, Abington, 111. 
John Mingles, Keithsburg, 111. 
Geo. H. Mingles, '' " 

James R. Minor, Ohio Grove, 111. 
.lohn J. McDonald, Keithsburg, 111. 
Otto Ott, 

William S. Pearson, Abington, 111. 
Samuel S. Pearce, Keithsburg, 111, 



Xyi APPENDIX. 

John A. Stevens, Abington, 111. 

Isaac N. Stevens, " " 

Patrick Smith, Keithsburg, 111. 

Samuel Stearns, Abington, 111. 

Gabriel E. Shaw, Millersburg, III. 

Thomas Spcnce, Perryton, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 

Geo. W. Thomas, Abington, 111. 

William H. Turner, Keithsburg, 111. 

William H. Wilson, New Boston, 111. 

Charles B. Wakeland, Millersburg, III. 

David Woliver, Perryton, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 

Thomas Winters, Abington, 111. 

John C. Vance, " " 

James M. AValker, Viola, 111. 

ENLISTED SUBSEQUENT TO ORGANIZATIOX OF THE REGIMENT. 

Thomas C. Johnson, Millersburg, 111. 
Lucien Murphv, Keithsburg, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 
William W. Wakeland, Millersburg, 111. 
Mordecai^Terrv, " '^ 

KESIGNED. 

Capt. Joseph P. Wycoft", at Gallatin, Tenn. 2d Lient. Luke P. 
Blackburn, Gallatin, Tenn. 

DISMISSED. 

2d Lieut. Aaron G. Henry — without proper cause and by an incom- 
petent Court Martial —See " Supplementary." 

DIED. 

Serg't Richard H. Cabeen, killed at Resaca. Corporal John Gib- 
son, killed at Resaca. Watson W. Hibbs, killed at Resaca. Samuel 
Hai'vey, killed near Cassville, May 19th, 1864. 1st Serg't John C. 
Reynolds, Aug. 8th, 1864, of wounds received at Peach Tree Creek. 
Sei'g't John McHard, July 25th, of wounds received at Peach Tree 
Creek. Corporal Jared Y. Harris, May 17th, of wounds received at 
Resaca. John Burnett, May I'Jth, of wounds received at Resaca. 
William T. Todd, July l^th, of wounds received at Resaca. William 
P. Irwin, wounded at Resaca and i)robably died in Hospital. Serg't 
Robert B. Seaton, of- disease, at Nashville. Lloyd H. Casebolt, of 
disease, at Gallatin. Richard M. Hoy, of disease, at Gallatin, 
Alonzo T. Bopp, of disease, at Atlanta. 

DISCHAEGED. 

Corporal Andrew J. Douglas and John G. Poague, at Gallatin. 
Corporal Andrew J. Campbell, at Lavergne. William Murphy and 
William S. Dilley, at Louisville, Ky. James 0. Raker, at Nashville. 
Samuel H. Danner and Eolus Elrick, at Gallatin. Josephus Gray and 
Ebenezer Gray, at Louisville. Geo. W. Hoover, at Quincy, 111. 
John Henry, Daniel C. Halsted, Frederick W. Johns, Martin V. Mor- 
gan and John 0. Minor, at Gallatin. Samuel Parks, at Quincy, lU. 



APPENDIX. XVII 

Joseph A. Webster, at Davenpoi't, Iowa. William Wilson, John 
Workman, Moses N. Warren, David Ritchie, William C. Hardin and 
Henry B. Worden, at Gallatin, Tenn. 

TRANSFERRED. 

Thomas M. Garrett, Duncan B. Seaton, Xorraan F. Wood, to Vet. 
Vol. Eng. Corp?. Almyron Lace, to Miss. Marine Brigade. 



XVIII APPENDIX. 

ROLL OF COMPANY " H." 

LIST OF ORIGINAL MEMBERS DISCHARGED WITH THE REGIMENT. 

Captain Hiram Elliott, Knoxville, 111. 
2d Lieut., Samuel Tucker, Eugene, 111. 
1st Serg't, Lucius A. Lawrence, Yates City, III. 
Serg't Samuel S. Seward, Truro, III. 
" Albert Bullard, Knoxville, 111. 
" Geo. W. German, Eugene, 111. 
" John German, 
Corporal Eber Parish, " " 

Allen Millen, Truro, 111. 
" Jerome Gearheart, Oneida, 111. 
" Robert Brvson, Eugene, 111. 
Warren Elliott, Knoxville, 111. 
George Walker, 
*' John W. Hogue, Eugene, 111. 
Tufva S. Johnson, Musician, Galesburg, 111. 
Winslow H. Bradford, Musician, Knoxville, 111. 

PRIVATES. 

Matthew Ackerson, Galesburg, 111. 
Calvin Bullard, Eugene, 111. 

Egbert Bullard, Knoxville, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 
Oloff Bankson, Galesburg, 111. 
Edgar Balch, Yates City, 111. 
James W. Collins, Truro, 111. 
Thomas Canny, Yates City, 111. 
James Daniels Victoria, 111. 
William Daniels, Knoxville, Ill.J 
Orange Daniels Elmwood, 111. 
Robert N. Freeborn, East Springfield, 0. 
Alfred Gardner, Knoxville, 111. 
Jonathan Hogue, Eugene, 111. 
Oloff A. Hunt, Galesburg, HI. 
Joseph Kimler, Eugene, 111. 
John F. Mire, Knoxville, 111. 
Francis McClellan, Galesburg, 111. 
George Owens, Yates City, 111. 
Cornelius Powell, Eugene, 111. 
Harrison Palmer, Knoxville, 111. 

Ira L. Parish, Eugene, 111 — wounded at New Hope Church. 
Sidney Rowland, " " 
Charles Selstrom, Galesburg, 111. 
Silas Snider, Knoxville, 111. 
Fitch Shair, Laharpe, III, 
James B. S^mpkins, Wataga, 111. 
Charles G Smith, Knoxville, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 
Jeremiah D. Shinn, Woodhull, 111. 

Wm. G. Sargeant, Knoxville, 111 — A ccidentally wounded at Overall' 
Creek. 



APPENDIX. 



XIX 



Simeon Temple, Truro, 111. 
Thomas Tucker, Eugene, 111. 
Ira E. B. Mott, Prairie City, 111. 

ENLISTED SUBSEQUENT TO ORGANIZATION OF REGIMENT. 

Richard F. Mire, Knoxville 111. 
Amos Snider, Galesburg, 111. 
Warren Wolf, Truro, 111. 
William Leramon, " " 
Thomas Arie, Knoxville, 111. 
Henry Arie, " 

DIED. 

Serg't Geo. P. Gumming, wounded near Atlanta and killed by R. 
R. accident, while going home. Serg't Harmon C. Shinn, killed at 
Peach Tree Creek. Corporal Demetrius H. Baird, killed at Resaca. 
Corporal Peter F. Dillon, May 27th, 1864, of wounds received at 
Resaca. Samuel Kight, killed near Peach Tree Creek, by falhng 
tree, while Reg't was building breastworks. Francis Ralph, May 
20th 1864, of wounds received at Resaca. James Elliott, killed at 
Resaca. James L. Thomas, of disease, at Gallatin. Paul Vanwin- 
kle, of disease, at Bowling Green. Ky. Augustus Johnson, of dis- 
ease, at Gallatin. William P. Volk, of disease, at Bucyrus, Ohio, 
while at home on furlough. 

DISCHARGED. 

Serg't Geo. W. Parker, Corporal Joseph Kasiah, Corporal Stephen 
D Cole, Isaac Wilhelm, Frank Barlow, Ira B. Belcher, Thomas B. 
Farquar, at Gallatin, Tenn. Charles R. Pratt, David M. Patten, Rob- 
ert B. Cunningham and Joseph W. Gaston, at Lavergne, Tenn. 
George Miranda, Aug. 26th, 1864, and NelsTruelson, May 31st, 1865, 
at Quincy, 111. Obed Brobest, at Jeflfersonville, Ind. Harvey Owens, 
at Louisville, Ky. Charles H. Gordon, at Springfield, 111., July 5th, 
1864. Samuel H. Matthews, at N. Y. City, May 1865. 

TRANSFERRED. 
Capt. L. D. i Shinn, by promotion, to position of Major. Lieut. 
John Thomas,'to Vet. Vol. Eng. Corps. Corporal John B. Shaw, to 
Non. Com. Staff, as Hospital Steward. Andrew J. Bergquist, to Vet. 
Vol. Eng. Corps. James Catterton, to Vet. Reserve Corps. 

DESERTED. 
Richard F. Hammond, at Knoxville, Sept. 17th 1862. Nathan B. 
Coakley, Oct 28th, 1862, at Bardstown, Ky. Daniel J. Farster, Wm. 
W. Farster, Joseph A. Light, in 1863, while at home on furlough. 



XX APPENDIX. 



ROLL OF COMPANY " L" 

LIST OP ORIGINAL MEMBERS DISCHARGD WITH THE REGIMENT. 

Brevet Major, Edwin H. Conger, Galesburg, 111. 

1st Lieut. Daniel W. Sheahan, Galva, 111. 

1st Serg't Reuben F. Beals, Oneida, 111 — wounded at Golgotha Church. 

Serg't Geo. W. Hall, 

*' William II. Brown, " " wounded at Averysboro, March 

16 th. 
'• Peter ^IcConnack, " " wounded near Atlanta. 
John W. Briukerhoif, Hackensaek, N. J. 
Corporal Myrenu Loomis, (Jalesburg, 111 — wounded near Keuesaw 
Mountain. 

Eli S. Kicker, Oneida. 111. 
" John A. llulkeley, " 
" James H. Millen, Abingdon. 111. 

" Silas A. Duntley, Oneida, 111 — wounded at Averynboro. 
" John Whanneli, i' " wounded at Resaea. 
Edwin J. Calkins, 
Amos H. Reynolds, " 
Rodnev M. Willis, Musician, Galesburg, 111. 
John Doyle, Wagoner, Woodhull, 111.' 

PRIVATES. 

James F. Bunnell, Hannah Station, Ind. 
David Billington, Oneida, 111. 
Taylor D. Blakley, Yates City, HI. 
James R. Chapman, Big Rock, Iow.t. 
Geo. F. Duntley, Oneida, 111. 

James H. Davie, Knoxville, 111 — woundedAug. 8th, near Atlanta. 
Thomas Y. Finlev, Oneida, III. 
John S. Fuller, 
Nathan H. Gallant, " " 

John Goodheart, " " wounded at Resaea. 

Douglas Howey, Walnut Grove, 111 — wounded near Kenesaw Moun- 
tain. 
Weymouth Hadlcy, Oneida, 111. 

Emery C. Humphrey, Wataga, 111 — wounded at Averysboro. 
OlofF Hanson, Wataga, 111 — wounded at Resaea. 
Wesley L. Kenney, Oneida, 111. 
Ezra Lee, Centre Point, 111. 

William D. Lee, " *' wounded at Resaea, 14th. 
AVilliamH. Merriatt, Virginia City, Cal — wounded at Golgotha Church. 
James McKown, Walnut Grove, 111. 
James B. McConcbio, Oneida^ 111. 
William Mills, Abingdon, 111. 
William Main, Oneida, 111. 

Jesse McQuade, " " wounded in South Carolina, Feb. 28th, 1865. 
Thomas Milsom, " '' 
Rufus H. Moore, Galesburg, 111. 
Lars Olson, *' " wounded at Resaea. 



APPEISTDIX. XXI 

John H. Ost'-om, AVoodliull, 111. 
Plummer F. Pierce, Oneida, 111. 

James Powell, Woodhull, 111. , , . t, i m. 

Oliver F. Pierce, Walnut Grove, 111— wounded at Resaca, Uth. 
Charles H. Robertson, Oneida, 111. . 

AVilliam I. Reed, ^^ ;; captured near Louisville, (.a. 

James M. Ralston, 

Theodore M. Rikert, " " ,1^-0 

Vlfred D Richards, Knoxville, 111— wounded at Resaca. 
Albert R. Riley, Galesburg, III— wounded at Resaca. 
Simon Stone, Oneida, 111. 

KNLISTED SUBSKQUENT TO ORGANIZATION OF REGIMENT. 

Joseph Kilpatrick, Oneida, 111— wounded at Resaca. 
Peter Olson, Oneida, 111. 

RESIGNED. 

Capt. Geo. H. King, at Lavergne, Tenn. 2d Lieut. J. L. Bonnell, 
at Lavergne, Tenu. 

DIED. 
Robert Watson, Nov. 15th, 1862 at Frankfort, Ky of disease. 
William Kennev, of disease, at Gallatm Feb 22d 1863. John ^. 
Ralston, of disease, at Gallatin, May 23d, 1863. Harvey L- ^ ke" 
of disease, at Stewarts Creek, June 22d, 1863. Corporal Will an 
Revi^^olds, killed at Resaca. Corporal Edward A. Aiken, killed at 
ReLaca. 'Corporal John Watson, killed at Resaca. Corporal A\m. 
Olson, of wounds received near Goldsboro, March 16th, 1865. 
Coiporal Cornelius Lott, killed at Avcrysboro. Herman Swanson, 
June 20th, 1864, of v.ounds received at Resaca. 

1)I.SCIIARC4EI). 
Oliver E. Blossom, Chas. Moore, M. G. Waldroii, Alex. M. Sweet, 
Samuel McConchie, St. Clair Powell and Rufus B. Harmon, at Galla- 
fin Tenn Xels Olson, Oct. 1863. Geo. Murray, Oct 1864, Serenus 
C. Amend, May 20th, 1865, James Reed and Phillip Humphrey, Jan. 
22d, 1863. Andrew Bro-liue, Jan. Uth, 1865, 

TRANSFERRED. 
Serg't M. L. Courtney, by promotion to position ^f^d Lieut, in 
Co. A Serg't Ed. C. Courtney, to Non. Com btaft^C.C. Fulton, 
to Co. A. S^imuel W. Walker, to Vet. Vol. Lng. Corps. ^^ m. 1. 
Brennan and Wm. Fuller, to Vet. Reserve Corps. 

MISSING. 
William 0. Jones— disappeared May 16th, 1865, at Chancellers- 
yille battlecrround ; was probably killed by guerrilla^. 



XXII APrEiSfDIX. 



ROLL OF COMPANY "K" 

LIST OF ORIGINAL MEMBERS DISCHARGED WITH THE REGIMENT. 

Capt James Y. Merritt, New Boston, Ill-wounded at Averysboro, N. C. 
1st Lieut. J. E. Harroun, Aledo, 111. 
1st Serg't William Winders, Aledo, 111. 
Serg't Alexander Carnahan, " " 
" Aaron R. Purdani, New Boston, 111. 
" Leander Officer, Pre-emption, 111. 

" Ambrose H. Rowe, Millersburg, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 
Corporal Peter Griffith, Pre-emption, 111. 
Benj. F. H. Reynolds, Aledo, 111. 
Reuben Shields, High Point, 111. 
Jas. E. Gilmore, Aledo, 111. 
*' Madison A. Retherford, Ferdinand, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 
*' Nelson Taylor, Millersburg, 111. 
" Jacob A. Reed, Eliza, 111. 
" James Kiddoo, Keithsburg, 111. 

PRIVATES. 

Theophilus L. Ashbaugh, Aledo, 111. 

James L. Brewer, Eliza, 111. 

Thomas J. Beverlin, " " 

James N. Barlctt, " 

James Clark, Aledo, 111 — wounded near Atlanta. 

William'Carr, Eliza, 111. 

Eugene Davis, Aledo, 111. 

Henry F. Endicott, New Boston, 111. 

Ezra Fuller, Eliza, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 

Harvey J. Fisher, Eliza, 111 — wounded at Averysboro. 

Elijah Gardener, Duncan, 111. 

Edwin Gilmore, Aledo, 111. 

Alexander F. Graham, " " 

Joel Hill, Oxford, |I11 — wounded near Kenesaw j\Iountain. 

John Haverfield, Millersburg, 111. 

Jacob W. Kelley, Aledo, 111 — wounded at New Hope, Church. 

James Mays, Millersburg, 111. 

Oliver Mays, 

David W. McKee, Aledo, HI. 

Geo. H. Mills, " 

Daniel McEowen, " " captured at Goldsboro — exchanged. 

John A. Ramsey, " *' 

Joshua Spicher, Eliza, 111. 

John J. Swartz, Aledo, 111 — wounded at Resaca. 

William Sabins, New Boston, 111. 

James M. Shingledecker, Millersburg, 111. 

Isaac Thompson, New Boston, 111. 

William Valentine, Aledo, 111. 

James R. Wood, Eliza, 111. 

Laughlin H. Woodward, New Boston, 111. 

Philip Walston, Duncan, 111. 



APPEIS^DIX. XXIII 

William H. Woodward, Aledo, 111. 

Henry R. Wells, " " wounded at Resaca and again at 

Lawtonville, S. C. 
Lewis Welty, New Boston, 111. 
Chester S. Willits, Duncan, 111. 

ENLISTED SUBSEQUENT TO ORGANIZATION OF REGIMENT; 

Arthur R. Agy, New ]?oston, 111 — wounded at Averysboro. 

Robert Boyle, Millersburg, 111. 

Melville Danford, New Boston, 111. 

William Danford, '' 

Pyrrhus Glaney, 

Hylvanus Hersom, " " 

Isaac Spichcr, " " 

John C. Summers, Millersburg, III. 

Perry Thompson, New Boston, 111. 

KESIGXEI). 

Capt. Sanderson H. Rodgers, at (xallatin, Tenn, Capt. Wni. A. 
Wilson, Oct. 2()th, 1864. 2d Lieut., Van Willits, Nov. 17th, 1862. 
2d Lieut. Samuel E. Willits, Jan. 21st 1865. 

J>IED. 

Corporal Allen Wilson, ol' disease, March 3d, 1862. Corporal 
Waters P. Willit, killed at Resaca. Corporal Isaac N. Stevenson, 
killed at New Hope Church. Michael Bryant, of disease, Dec. 16th, 
1862. Geo. W. Barlett, May 18th, 1864, of wounds received at 
Resaca. Abram Fuller, Feb. 8th, 186:3. James P. Collier, of dis- 
ease, Dec. 4th, 1862. Madison Dagger, Feb. 28d, I860, of disease, 
Thomas H. Hand, of disease, March 12th, 1863. James P. Hampton, 
of disease, June 10th, 1853. Samuel D. Hutchinson, killed at, 
Averysboro, N. C. W^illiam H. Hampton, March 23d, 1865, of 
wounds received near Bentonville. Albert Kiddoo, Nov. 10th, 1864, 
of wounds received July 20th, 1864, at Peach Tree Creek. Peter 
0. Pierce, May 17th, 1864, of wounds received at Resaca. Jacob 
Shields, of disease, Jan. 16th, 18(33. Noah Spicher, of disease, Oct. 
17th, 1863. Marvin R. Wright, of disease, Feb. 3d, 1863. Moses 
White, jr., killed at Resaca. 

DISCHARGED. 

Serg't John M. Miller, Jan. 15th, 1862. 1st Serg't John G. 
McGuffin, Oct. 1864. Serg't L. V. Willits, Feb. 20th, 1864, on 
account of wounds received near Chattanooga. Serg't Jesse E. 
Huston, Dec. 21st, 1862, to accept Com. as Chaplain. Corporal Eli 
Cook, Jan. 13th, 1863. Edwin R. Dulin, Jan. 13th, 1863. Otis Albee, 
March 29th, 1865, was wounded at Resaca, May 15th, 1864. Francis 
M. Beverlin, Jan. 15th, 1863. James H. Crane and John Downing, 
Jan. 1863. Robert H. Day, Jan. 13th, 1863. Joseph J. Delebar, 
Jan. 13th, 1863. Henry f. Davis, Jan. 1864. David H. Edgar, An- 
drew J. Foote, Robert N. Gilmore, Daniel Knapp. John Kiddoo, John 
H. Murfin, James Mclntyre, during month of Jan. 1863. Franklin 



XXIV 



APPENDIX. 



Ferguson and Samuel M. Smith, March, 1863. Dewit C. Updike and 
James M. Wilson, Feb., 1863. John J. Meyers, fApril, 1865, on 
account of wounds recieved near Keneraw Mountain. Levi Walston, 
March, 1864. 

TRANSFEKEEDk 

Walter Smethers, Geo. Braucht, Henry Smethers and Abraham 
Spicher, to Vet. Vol. Eng. Corps, Aug., 1864. Eli C. Crossley, to 
Miss. Marine Brigade, Jan., 1863. 

Note: — AVheii tlie Regiment was discharged the "Recruits" were transferred 
to the 16th 111. Vet. Vol. 






irl970 









.^' 



^> 



<P. 



tP. 



0' V 



^ , <P 



^*'.^L1'V*° 












^^ 






o^ ^ 









-^^ 









-? '?^ 



'^/7^^% -^ A^ 



-^ 



^^^ 



-P, .V 






# .v~ _ \^ "^^ ^ ^'^^v^^:^ 



•^/Vo 



X 0>^ 



^^. ^^ „^'.^'" ^0 



<■ V, ^ /y 









<P .\^ 






^V. ,# '^^.- 



















'J^r 



1 ^N /;- o 



•no 






.V -^ 






» 1 \ \^ V, V V , 



^. 









>, 



"^.- v^' 



'o. * 



1 \ 



» ,NV^ 



V ,^V 






•-/. ""^y. ^"^ 



<->, 






\' 



^^ 



oV 









'U. 






-^ - ' ^ " \^ 

7 <^^ 




























"oo^ 



.> >^ 



.■i^ 



> .*'*'' 

'^^ V*^ 



,3 -v 






:,\ 





\1> C 



0' ^ 



vO 



-0 


















^<<. 



c5^^ 



a\ 



^' .x-^- 









^^. 



o 0' 



^A '=' tf I \ 



\/ 



